September 13, 2021 - 812 views
Welsh Government and energy networks are to work together on the UK's first integrated energy grid for net zero.
Achieving net zero requires rapid transformation of our energy system, to enable the decarbonisation of home heating, transport and industry.
At the heart of this work are the networks responsible for connecting homes and buildings with electricity and gas.
The Welsh Government is working closely with Wales’ existing electricity and gas network operators to make sure their networks can support the energy systems’ transformation the Committee on Climate Change says is necessary by 2030.
The Welsh Government believes a planned approach is best suited to developing networks that meet the future needs of places and people and provide the best long-term value for society.
All parties have all recognised the need to develop a strategic approach to gas and electricity network planning and are working together at how the future energy networks can meet the needs of Wales.
Wales aims to be the first country to have a joint approach to developing its gas and electricity networks.
To do this the Welsh Government is leading the development of a strategic plan for the future energy grid to 2050. This work will gather and assess evidence, consider scenarios, and advise on short-term ‘low regret’ actions that can be taken immediately.
Minister for Climate Change, Julie James said: "I am delighted to announce that all the energy network operators in Wales, and Ofgem, have agreed to work with us to develop what we believe is a UK first – an integrated, long-term plan for gas and electricity networks in Wales.
"Developing and delivering infrastructure plans is a long-term process. However, the climate emergency means we must move as quickly as possible.
"We need to get this right, as it will be a once-in-a-century change to our infrastructure. We will of course need to involve all sectors in this work, and I am committed to doing this as the work develops."
Sarah Williams, Wales & West Utilities Director of Regulation & Asset Strategy said: "We’re pleased to be part of this industry leading project – which is critical if we are to get to Net Zero and help communities and industry right across Wales decarbonise in a way that is reliable and sustainable.
"By working together, we can keep the impact on customers’ bills to a minimum while unlocking the potential of green gas like hydrogen and biomethane alongside renewable electricity."
Frank Mitchell, CEO of SP Energy Networks, said: "We’re committed to working with the Welsh Government and our other network operators to deliver a network ready for Net Zero.
"That’s why we’re looking to invest over £650m in the electricity distribution network in Wales from 2023 to 2028, supporting hundreds of green jobs and enabling the decarbonisation of heat and transport that is absolutely crucial to deliver Wales’ climate change targets."
