What discussions has the Welsh Government had with distribution network operators such as National Grid about improving grid capacity in Wales?
I have met with key energy network-related organisations including the National System Energy Operator, Ofgem and National Grid, and Welsh Government officials meet regularly with these and other network companies and organisations, including Scottish Power Energy Networks and the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero. These companies and organisations are responsible for both grid connectivity in Wales, and for strategic planning for improving grid capacity and strengthening networks in Wales. Welsh Government has led energy planning across Wales at the local authority level to identify future needs, which has closely involved network companies and provides evidence that is informing network companies’ delivery plans.
Officials also sit on the committee that oversees NESO’S Strategic Spatial Energy Plan, which will in turn inform the Central Strategic Network Plan. We are already working with the newly launched Regional Energy System Planner for Wales, which will play an important part in developing a coherent plan for gas and electricity networks in Wales that meet the priorities of Welsh people and businesses.