Formally launched today, NESO (National Energy System Operator) is an independent public corporation tasked with ensuring reliable, clean, and affordable energy for all of Great Britain.

NESO builds on the strong foundation of the Electricity System Operator, formerly part of the National Grid group. As an independent entity, NESO is responsible for overseeing Great Britain's energy transition, ensuring the nation's energy system is sustainable, efficient, and secure.

A New Approach to Energy Planning

NESO's responsibilities mark a shift from traditional energy system planning. Rather than focusing solely on one energy source, NESO will consider all energy types, including electricity, gas, and emerging technologies like carbon capture and storage. This comprehensive approach will allow NESO to design the networks and markets needed to meet Great Britain's energy demands.

The organization will manage the electricity and gas networks, plan future infrastructure, and explore cutting-edge technologies. Through close collaboration with neighboring countries, NESO will deliver secure, clean energy to all, while aligning efforts with international partners to achieve climate goals.

Collaborative Efforts Across Europe

As a former CEO of EirGrid, Ireland's Transmission System Operator, I know that the energy transition cannot happen in isolation. Working closely with our European neighbors is crucial for planning and developing new energy infrastructure.

We are committed to working with countries bordering the Irish, Celtic, and North Seas to accelerate climate targets and minimize consumer costs. This collaborative spirit is essential for both the UK and the EU to navigate the energy transition successfully.

I welcome the UK's involvement in the North Sea Energy Cooperation (NSEC) forum. NESO looks forward to supporting the UK government at the upcoming NSEC forum in Copenhagen, where we will explore how the North Sea, Europe’s most significant energy resource, can be best utilized for everyone's benefit.

A Pivotal Moment for Great Britain's Energy Transition

As NESO’s first CEO, I believe that the establishment of this organization comes at a critical time. While Great Britain has made commendable progress in decarbonizing its electricity grid, this alone will not be enough to achieve a clean power system by 2030 and a net-zero economy by 2050.

The end of an era for coal-fired power stations highlights the progress made so far. Ratcliffe-on-Soar, the last coal-fired power station in Great Britain, was recently shut down, ending a 142-year reliance on coal for electricity generation. Just a decade ago, coal accounted for over 30% of Great Britain’s electricity. Today, renewable energy sources like wind and solar power have largely replaced coal, making Great Britain a global leader in decarbonization.

As a newly independent organization, NESO is eager to work with European partners to further decarbonize our economies and achieve our shared climate goals.

Ensuring Energy Security

Beyond decarbonization, NESO will play a critical role in ensuring energy security. By partnering with European countries, we can build a secure and resilient energy system that leverages the continent’s natural resources.

In recent years, collaboration between European electricity and gas system operators has been essential in managing energy crises and ensuring reliable energy supplies. From long-term planning to real-time operational cooperation, we have worked together with fellow operators to enhance energy security across Europe.

The history of energy cooperation between Great Britain and Europe dates back to 1961, when the first sub-sea electric interconnector connected Great Britain with France. Today, Great Britain is linked to its neighbors by nine electricity and three gas interconnectors. NESO is committed to maintaining these vital connections and working closely with our neighbors to design the energy infrastructure of the future.

A Key Milestone in Great Britain's Energy Landscape

NESO's creation marks a significant milestone in Great Britain’s energy journey. With a holistic approach, a focus on collaboration, and a strong commitment to energy security, NESO is well-positioned to lead the country’s energy transition and contribute to the global fight against climate change.

As Great Britain moves toward a clean power system by 2030 and a net-zero economy by 2050, NESO remains dedicated to open, constructive, and cooperative engagement with European and international partners.

The European Commission’s president, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized the importance of EU-UK cooperation on shared interests like energy. Similarly, the UK’s secretary of state for energy security and net zero, Ed Miliband, has had productive discussions with European Commission leaders, reinforcing the need for continued collaboration to achieve our common vision of a sustainable and just economy. Photo by Chris Tomlinson / Pylon Maintenance Work / CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia commons.