GovWire

At Autumn Statement 2023, the Chancellor announced that he is commissioning the National Infrastructure Commission to undertake a study into electricity distribution networks.

The study focuses on the lower voltage network that connects the high voltage transmission networkto homes and businesses.

The Commission will assess how to identify and deliver the anticipatory investment needed to avoid the network becoming a barrier to electrification and Net Zero. The Commission will also consider the role of Ofgem, the Distribution Network Operators, the Regional Energy Strategic Planners in connecting demand and generation to the network. The study will also look at how policy and regulation can support network deployment, including the role of the planning system, as well as interactions with the transmission network.

The Commission has also issued a call for evidence to seek views and data from stakeholders in order to inform their assessment. Thestudyshould provide a final report in around twelve months.