The ENSG is a high level forum which brings together key stakeholders in electricity networks that work together to support Government in meeting the long-term energy challenges of tackling climate change and ensuring secure, clean and affordable energy. These include network companies, generators, Trade Associations and Devolved Administrations.
The Group is jointly chaired by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) and its broad aim is to identify, and co-ordinate work to help address key strategic issues that affect the electricity networks in the transition to a low-carbon future. Work undertaken by the ENSG has included, for example, publishing a smart grid Vision and Routemap outlining a potential path to test the feasibility, costs and benefits of smart grid technology and the means by which the UK could realise the smart grid Vision.
“Our Electricity Transmission Network: A Vision for 2020”
The ENSG has published updated “Our Electricity Transmission Network: A Vision for 2020” summary and full reports. These reports present the updated views of the Transmission Owners, with input from the ENSG, on what network reinforcement might be required to accommodate the new generation needed to meet the Government’s 2020 renewable energy targets.
The ENSG previously had its own website which has now been archived. Details of ENSG work pre-2011 is available on the National Archives: Electricity Networks Strategy Group website. This includes copies of the 2009 ENSG 2020 Vision Reports.
Useful Links
The ENSG 2020 Vision sets out a high level view of potential transmission network requirements. However, any detailed investment proposals from the network companies need to be submitted to Ofgem for funding and to the relevant planning authorities for consent.