• The REA has welcomed the release of independent recommendations from the UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, Nick Winser;
• The report contains recommendations on reducing the time it takes to deliver UK transmission infrastructure;
• While the REA welcomes government’s reception of these recommendations, we stress that their implementation must be treated as a priority;
• These actions are essential and will help deliver a modern and fully decarbonised electricity system for the UK.

The REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology) has welcomed today’s release of independent recommendations from the UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, Nick Winser, on how to accelerate the deployment of electricity transmission infrastructure.

The Winser Review contains findings and recommendations on reducing the time it takes to deliver transmission infrastructure in the UK. One of the biggest barriers to delivering a decarbonised electricity system is the delay in connecting new renewable generation, energy storage assets and EV charging infrastructure.

As electricity demand is forecast to increase two-fold by 2050, a transformation of the electricity transmission network is necessary to reach the Government’s ambitions of a decarbonised electricity system by 2035 and reaching net zero by 2050.

The Secretary of State for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero Grant Shapps has thanked Nick Winser for the report, stating “I welcome and would like to highlight the recommendations for industry within the report. The private sector will be critical in accelerating the deployment of electricity transmission infrastructure, and Government, Ofgem and industry will need to work closely together to realise its full potential.

While the REA welcomes the Government’s approval of these recommendations, we stress that their implementation must be treated as a priority.

Dr Nina Skorupska CBE, Chief Executive of the REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology) said:

“The Winser Review is a hugely important call to action for Government, grid operators, Ofgem and industry alike. The report lays out the critical importance of halving the time it takes to build and connect new electricity transmission lines, while reiterating the need for better coordinated strategic network planning across stakeholders so that decision-making is significantly sped-up.

“Delays in connecting new renewable generation and energy storage assets remains one of the largest barriers to the UK’s ability to deliver a secure, affordable and decarbonised electricity system. It is also slowing our ability to build the infrastructure needed to meet the growing demand for both electric vehicle (EV) charging and the electrification of heat. Given the Government’s stated ambition to fully decarbonise the electricity grid by 2035, current connection delays in excess of 10 years are simply untenable.

“It is good to see the Government welcome today’s recommendations, however their implementation must be swift, while the needs of local communities living near these infrastructure developments are also appropriately considered. These actions are essential and will help deliver a modern and fully decarbonised electricity system for the UK.”

—ENDS—