SSE has welcomed Ofgem's announcement regarding its Framework Decision for the ED3 price control, highlighting its positive signal for the future development of electricity distribution networks.

The energy company stated that the decision recognises the crucial role of these networks in enabling a smarter and more resilient energy system for the future.

SSE echoed the National Infrastructure Commission's view that increased investment in local electricity distribution networks is essential for driving economic growth and prosperity within communities as the energy transition progresses. The company expressed its full support for the move towards long-term planning and proactive investment, believing this approach will deliver an efficient transition at the lowest overall cost to consumers.

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While acknowledging the announcement as a "good starting point," SSE noted that further details need to be worked through and key decisions made. The company stated it looks forward to collaborating with Ofgem to further shape the framework and enable business plans that are investable, financeable, and capable of supporting the necessary significant increase in capital delivery.

Chris Burchell, Managing Director of SSEN Distribution, commented on the decision. "Today's framework decision represents a positive change in thinking from Ofgem, recognising the criticality of the five-year ED3 period in the context of long-term decarbonisation goals and the drive to meet changing customer needs to 2050."

He added, "The move to a new, planned, proactive approach to investment will help deliver the most timely and efficient transition for consumers. At SSE, we're already adopting this strategic approach to our own network planning and delivery."

Mr Burchell emphasised that this is an early stage in the ED3 process. "It's now important that the design of the regulatory mechanisms fully aligns to the ambition set out today, and helps support the delivery of a step-change in capital investment. We'll continue to engage constructively with Ofgem in this process."