Leading figures in the Greater London energy sector have attended a National Energy System Operator (NESO) event, which focused on delivering a more affordable, secure and sustainable energy system.
The potential for unlocking economic growth and creating local jobs through NESO’s work to transform the energy system was at the heart of discussions at the gathering of energy experts and stakeholders from across Greater London.
Representatives from industry, environmental agencies, community groups, local government and UK Government heard how NESO’s role as Great Britain’s independent Strategic Energy Planner can benefit the area and unlock future opportunities for the city and surrounding areas.
NESO Director of Markets Rebecca Beresford said:
“As NESO develops our strategic energy planning it is important that we work together with local industries and communities across Great Britain so we create an energy system which works for all.
“I was delighted to be in London to hear from a wide range of stakeholders and energy experts from the area about the challenges and opportunities they face.
“Greater London has a complex and high demand energy system, which is shaped by its dense and growing population. Yet it generates relatively little of its own electricity, which creates certain challenges.
“The Forum focused on how we can work together to what NESO can do to overcome obstacles and ensure the people of Greater London benefit from the energy system of the future.
“NESO is determined to work in partnership with stakeholders and the energy sector to unlock jobs and prosperity alongside a more affordable, secure and sustainable energy system.”
Forum attendees included representatives of community organisations, London councils and boroughs, networks, the Greater London Authority, industry, utilities, academia, environmental groups and DESNZ.
Andrew Dakers, CEO of West London Business, was one of the guest panellists at the event. He said: “Energy is now one of the biggest factors in whether the capital can deliver the jobs, homes and investment our region is capable of. Getting strategic energy planning right is not a technical footnote – it is fundamental to economic growth.
“We warmly welcome NESO’s determination to work in genuine partnership with industry, local businesses and communities. By aligning planning boundaries, streamlining the demands placed on local stakeholders and tackling the barriers to timely investment and connections, we can unlock real prosperity.”
Strategic Energy Planning (SEP) is about the joined-up planning needed to meet future energy needs across GB to decarbonise our energy systems and support economic growth