A new public body, the “Future System Operator”, will be responsible for planning and managing energy distribution, with an emphasis on the challenges posed by carbon emissions. The government said the plan, announced on the eve of the publication of its long-awaited energy strategy, “will lead to zero progress, while maintaining energy security and minimizing costs for consumers.” The Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) said National Grid, a listed company since 1995, would be adequately compensated in a transaction that would lead the government to take control of the Electricity System Operator (ESO). . , the part of the business that keeps the lights on. Gas distribution assets will also be included in state ownership. National Grid CEO John Pettigrew said National Grid “has a crucial role to play in releasing the economy’s carbon footprint to zero, and will continue to ensure security of supply at the lowest cost to them.” consumers”. He said: “We are working closely with government, industry and the regulator to create a Future System Operator that enables long-term holistic thinking, leads to zero progress and lays the groundwork for the regulatory reform needed to deliver clean, fair and affordable energy transition. “We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition, subject to parliamentary approval and the completion of the transaction process.” Prospect said it was vital to maintain the skills and experience of the people who worked at ESO National Grid. “Employees need certainty about exactly what the new ownership model will look like and their future prospects,” he said. “The government and the National Grid should work with the unions to provide commitment and reassurance as soon as possible.” The substantial nationalization of ESO comes just three years after its formal separation from the rest of the National Grid, albeit within the same corporate group. ESO manages supply and demand in the grid to prevent power outages by keeping the lights on. The network houses the infrastructure components that support the system.
