International Oil & Gas

Ofgem approves NESO’s amendments to the Connections Network Design Methodology

Ofgem has approved the National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) proposed amendments to the Connections Network Design Methodology (CNDM), which aim to improve the connections process ahead of the Gate 2 to Whole Queue (G2tWQ) formation exercise under the TMO4+ reform package. These changes include adjustments to advancement checks, import/export treatment for storage systems, reclassification of reactive compensation, and updates to 0 MW onshore wind transmission zones. Ofgem deemed a formal consultation unnecessary due to the limited scope and minor impact of the amendments but emphasised that future changes should generally follow the annual review and consultation process set out in the licence.

DESNZ publishes guidance on nuclear third party liability exemptions for LLW sites

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published guidance which sets out how operators of low-level radioactive waste (LLW) disposal sites can apply for exemption from Nuclear Third Party Liability (NTPL) under the Nuclear Installations Act 1965 and the 2025 Regulations. This exemption, known as the Low Level Waste Exclusion, applies to sites that pose minimal risk of a nuclear occurrence. To qualify, operators must demonstrate compliance with four conditions: holding an environmental permit with strict radioactivity limits, maintaining a compliant site history, ensuring off-site radiation doses remain below 1 millisievert per year and confirming that criticality incidents cannot occur. Evidence such as environmental permits, safety assessments and dose evaluations must be provided.

Draft National Policy Statement for Nuclear Energy Generation (EN-7) designated following consultation

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has confirmed the designation of the National Policy Statement (NPS) for Nuclear Energy Generation (EN-7), providing the primary planning framework for decisions on development consent for nuclear infrastructure in England and Wales. The statement will guide the Secretary of State’s decision-making under the Planning Act 2008 and ensure consistency across the planning and regulatory regimes governing nuclear fission projects. EN-7 complements the overarching energy NPS (EN-1) and supports delivery of the government’s commitment to deploy new nuclear capacity to achieve net zero by 2050.The government’s consultation outcome report (November 2025) confirms that stakeholders broadly supported EN-7’s scope and criteria, and that no material amendments were required to the draft text. It also sets out the government’s next steps for implementation and associated guidance.

Ofgem rejects CUSC modification proposal on transmission charging methodology

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has rejected the Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC) Modification Proposal CMP432, which sought to remove the Locational Onshore Security Factor (LSF) from the calculation of Wider Transmission Network Use of System tariffs. The proposal, raised by Scottish and Southern Energy, aimed to improve cost reflectivity and competition by eliminating what was perceived as an unnecessary amplification of charges arising from the inclusion of network redundancy costs.