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Ofgem provides further clarity on its proposed network charging reforms
Ofgem is in the process of reforming the way in which users pay for access to and use of [...]
9 August blackout technical report highlights issues with Grid Code compliance
Ofgem has now published National Grid’s technical analysis of the 9 August blackout. Much of the meat is contained [...]
Supplier failures, rising prices and another review – the case for serious retail market reform
The need for reform of the retail energy market is increasingly clear – the past week has seen the [...]
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Rising wholesale prices challenge the business models of small suppliers
Energy prices have been in the news again, with price increases from many suppliers and the publication of the intended level of the retail price cap. There are a number of drivers of energy prices, with network and policy [...]
Future Energy Scenarios 2018: another look into the crystal ball
In July, National Grid published its 2018 Future Energy Scenarios, with the following headlines: Capacity could increase from 103 GW today to between 189 GW and 268 GW by 2050, with the more decarbonised scenarios requiring the highest capacities. [...]
Debunking energy myths: renewable electricity is not cheap
In the final post in my energy myths series, I will look at one of the biggest, and arguably most dangerous myths of all - the notion that electricity generated from renewable sources is cheap. Myth #4: Renewable energy [...]
Debunking energy myths: smart meters will not save money for consumers
In my second post on energy myths I addressed the myth that the energy price cap would save money for consumers. Another money-saving myth relates to smart meters, with politicians insisting that consumers will save money on their bills [...]
Debunking energy myths: the retail price cap will not save money for consumers
Following close behind Myth #1 about the profitability of the energy supply business, comes Myth #2, that the retail price cap will see the end of “rip-off tariffs” and save money for consumers. I have already written a number [...]
Debunking energy myths: energy supply is not a goldmine and life is tough for new entrants
The energy landscape is an increasingly confusing one for consumers – with new entrant suppliers going out of business, the introduction of price caps, and the on-going controversy over smart meters. The latest issue is the fuss suddenly being [...]
Ofgem’s new consultation on network charging and access is an important step towards market reform
Ofgem has published the latest strand in its ongoing work on making network charging arrangements fit for purpose against a backdrop of significant changes to the nature and use of both transmission and distribution networks. It has issued a [...]
Smoke & mirrors: a new report into the viability of CCS
This week the BEIS CCUS Cost Challenge Taskforce produced its report into the potential for carbon capture use and storage in the UK. “By demonstrating that CCUS can deliver decarbonisation across industry, power, and provide solutions for heat and [...]
UK Power Networks trials solar + storage virtual power plant in London
Distribution Network Operator UK Power Networks (“UKPN”), which covers over eight million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England, has announced a virtual power plant (“VPP”) to be developed in London, to relieve pressure [...]
First EPR achieves grid connection but a long road ahead for Hinkley Point C
Last week the world’s first European Pressurised Water Reactor (“EPR”) came online at Taishan in China, 18 years after the first planned EPR at Olkiluoto in Finland made its first licence application. Construction on the third generation nuclear plant [...]
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