Government Transfers National Grid ESO to Public Ownership, Rebranding as NESO
The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) has announced a significant restructuring aimed at addressing the backlog of projects awaiting connection to the UK’s electricity grid. This follows an earlier proposal detailing plans for streamlining project connections.
After a consultation earlier this year, the government has decided to acquire the ESO, transitioning it into public ownership. From 1 October 2024, the entity was rebranded as the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and will assume responsibility for the comprehensive planning of Britain’s gas and electricity networks. Under the Energy Act 2023, NESO will be designated as the Independent System Operator and Planner (ISOP), taking on all existing functions of the ESO and expanding its remit to include gas and hydrogen.
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