NESO launched to guide Great Britain’s energy system to net zero
October 11, 2024
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has officially launched as an independent, public corporation tasked with ensuring reliable, clean, and affordable energy for all of Great Britain. NESO builds upon the strong foundations of the former Electricity System Operator, previously part of the National Grid group. As a new public institution, NESO represents a shift in energy system planning, moving away from traditional silos to consider all energy vectors in designing the networks and markets required for the future.
NESO will oversee Great Britain’s electricity and gas networks, plan infrastructure development, and explore emerging technologies such as carbon capture and storage. By collaborating with neighbouring countries, NESO aims to provide efficient, secure, and clean energy across the region.
The energy transition cannot be achieved in isolation. NESO is committed to working closely with neighbouring countries across the Irish, Celtic, and North seas, accelerating progress toward climate targets while minimizing costs for consumers. The organization also welcomes the UK’s involvement with the North Sea Energy Cooperation (NSEC) forum and looks forward to supporting the UK government at the upcoming forum in Copenhagen.
Fintan Slye, NESO’s first CEO, emphasizes that NESO’s formation comes at a crucial time for Great Britain’s energy sector. While significant progress has been made in decarbonizing the electricity grid, it alone cannot meet the nation’s goal of a clean power system by 2030 and a net-zero economy by 2050. This new organization aims to continue the journey toward net-zero emissions, working alongside European partners to decarbonize economies and achieve ambitious climate targets.
Great Britain has already demonstrated leadership in decarbonization, shifting away from coal, which once accounted for over 30% of electricity generation. Just yesterday, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, the nation’s last coal-fired power station, was powered down, marking the end of a 142-year chapter since the world’s first coal-fired power station began operating in London in 1882. Today, renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are taking the lead in electricity generation, underscoring the nation’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Beyond its dedication to climate targets, NESO also plays a vital role in ensuring energy security. Collaborating with European partners enables the development of a secure and resilient European energy system, leveraging the natural resources available across the continent. Operational collaboration between electricity and gas system operators has already proven instrumental in managing recent energy crises and maintaining reliable supplies for citizens across Europe.
The connection between Great Britain and European energy cooperation stretches back to 1961 when the first sub-sea electric interconnector linked Great Britain and France. Today, nine electric and three gas interconnectors link Great Britain with its neighbours, and NESO remains committed to continued collaboration in designing and planning future energy infrastructure.
The establishment of NESO marks a significant milestone in Great Britain’s energy landscape. With a holistic approach, collaborative mindset, and commitment to energy security, NESO is positioned to lead Great Britain’s energy transition and contribute meaningfully to the global effort against climate change.
As Great Britain continues its journey toward a clean power system by 2030 and a net-zero economy by 2050, NESO reaffirms its commitment to open, collaborative, and constructive engagement with European and international partners. Recent discussions between Ed Miliband, the UK’s Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, and Maroš Šefčovič, Executive Vice President of the European Commission, have underscored the shared vision of a sustainable and just economy for both the EU and the UK.
This launch marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the decarbonization journey for both the UK and Europe. Together, NESO and its partners will work towards a sustainable future, achieving remarkable progress in the fight against climate change.
Image from NESO.