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SSEN has welcomed the National Infrastructure Commission's (NIC) study on the future of electricity distribution networks, expressing support for its recommendation of greater proactive investment to facilitate decarbonisation.
SSEN agrees with the NIC's assessment that a shift from the current "steady state" approach to network investment to a more proactive strategy is crucial for achieving net-zero targets. The company's own strategic development planning already reflects this long-term investment outlook, identifying future needs to meet customer decarbonisation goals.
"This is a very important and timely report, and we welcome the bold, ambitious vision the NIC has laid out for the future of distribution networks," said Chris Burchell, Managing Director of SSEN Distribution.
SSEN supports the NIC's call for a more proactive investment regime, enabling capacity to be in place when and where needed, thus accelerating decarbonisation and local economic growth. This aligns with SSEN's Strategic Development Plans, which extend to 2050 and cover its licence areas in central southern England and the north of Scotland.
"At SSEN, we've long called for reform to the mechanisms to ensure distribution networks enable - and don't hinder - decarbonisation and growth," added Burchell.
The company hopes the NIC's recommendations will encourage regulatory approval for this proactive, long-term investment approach. SSEN is already collaborating with stakeholders and local authorities to develop strategic local proposals that identify and plan necessary network investments.
SSEN believes the next electricity distribution price control, RIIO-ED3, starting in 2028, will be critical. They concur with the NIC's call for a doubling of current investment levels during that period to support local economic growth and power system decarbonisation. SSEN shares the view that the impact on customer bills will be limited and anticipates that this efficient investment will ultimately lower costs for consumers in the long run.
