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Former Conservative energy minister Charles Hendry has been appointed as independent chair of the transmission user group for SP Energy Networks.
The group will scrutinise future electricity transmission plans beyond 2021, when the current regulatory period (RIIO-T1) will come to an end.
It will also provide an independent challenge to SP Energy Networks’ business plan.
Hendry, who left parliament in 2015, said the electricity system will see “the biggest changes any of us have ever seen” over the next few years.
He added: “It will see a transformation of how and where power is generated and of the relationship between companies across the energy sector and their consumers.
“It is critical that these changes happen in ways that most benefit consumers, and that levels of investment in new infrastructure are optimal. The decisions made now will shape the sector for decades to come and we all need to cooperate to achieve the best outcomes.
“I am delighted to have been asked to chair this independent user group for SP Energy Networks, to scrutinise their proposals and to ensure that the views of the users across their network are fully taken into account.”
SP Energy Networks said it will involve current and future users of transmission to support the development of its future business plan.
Frank Mitchell, chief executive of SP Energy Networks welcomed Hendry’s appointment. He said: “I’m delighted that Charles will take up this important appointment to help shape our future plans and the future of the energy industry.
“The next 10 years will be critical for the next stage of the UK economy’s decarbonising of transport and heat if the “road to zero” is to be achieved.
“The ability to operate flexibly with an effective combination of market and technical solutions will further transform the way low carbon electricity is used, stored and generated.
“The GB transmission network is the motorway system for electricity and will be critical to ensure the connectivity of the solutions, delivering lowest cost clean energy better and quicker for all communities across GB.”
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