Regulation

ESO proposes change to imbalance pricing

DNOs required to compile standardised asset registers

SSEN allowed to continue operating HVDC testing facility

Ofgem approves rule changes to allow DNOs to pay towards transmission projects

Weekend press round-up: Brearley urges networks to embrace ‘collective spirit’

In our latest round-up of the weekend’s papers, Ofgem chief executive Jonathan Brearley urges networks to embrace the “collective spirit” as the regulator reins in their profits for RIIO2, Thames Water comes under the spotlight for payments made to former chief executive Steve Robertson and environmental groups raise concerns over planning changes being brought in to hasten the economic recovery from the coronavirus.

Mary Starks to leave Ofgem amid restructure

Ofgem’s executive director of consumers and markets Mary Starks is to leave her role after nearly two years. Chief executive Jonathan Brearley said an internal consultation was taking place on a new "flatter and broader leadership". Meanwhile Ofgem's chief economist, Joe Perkins, has departed to join a consultancy.

Water sector underperforms but gains trust

How Green is my RIIO?

As Ofgem prepares to publish its draft determinations for transmission and gas distribution companies’ business plans, Maxine Frerk identifies the key tests as to whether the process backs up the regulator’s new-found enthusiasm for decarbonisation.

Half of large suppliers failed to meet annual smart meter milestones

MOSL plots course for transition out of lockdown

The market operator for the non-domestic water retail sector (MOSL) is to set out how suppliers should gradually remove the protections for businesses impacted by coronavirus. Its Market Performance Operating Plan also aims to tackle legacy issues around the capture and use of data.

Ofgem to strengthen protections for PPM customers

Ofgem has revealed plans to introduce increased support for prepayment meter (PPM) customers as part of a permanent licence requirement. In addition, enhanced ability to pay principles mean suppliers will be required to offer more support to all customers struggling to pay their bills.

Ofgem: SoLR can cope with multiple failures

Philippa Pickford, Ofgem’s director of future retail markets, has told Utility Week that the regulator’s data shows the risk of multiple supplier failures as a result of Covid-19 is receding. Speaking on our #AskUsAnything show, Pickford admitted that concerns remain about the stability of some retailers but insisted that the Supplier of Last Resort process “would work well” in the eventuality of multiple market exits at the same time.

Ombudsman: Sector needs to build consumer trust around heat networks

Customer trust in heat networks is as essential as the infrastructure that builds them, the chief executive of the Energy Ombudsman has said. The Ombudsman chief said that customers are being asked to deal with new products and services in very different ways than they have previously which brings a level of fear and mistrust.

Ofgem unveils financial responsibility principle for suppliers

Citizens Advice calls for stronger ability-to-pay rules