Distribution

Distribution

This is an overview of the key content to be found in our Distribution subtopic. It briefly explains the nature of this content and provides links to it.

Practice Notes

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The Energy White Paper—an overview [Archived]—considers some of the key measures announced in the Energy White Paper published by the UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) on 14 December 2020 and their expected impact on the energy sector. It also provides a comprehensive overview of all commitments announced
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Licensing of GB electricity distribution—provides an overview of the licensing regime in place in respect of electricity distribution activities in Great Britain (GB). It covers the physical infrastructure

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Latest Energy News

DESNZ launches industry engagement for new Hydrogen Network Code development

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has announced the commencement of industry engagement on the development of a new Hydrogen Network Code (the Code) for hydrogen pipeline networks. Network codes are legal documents forming the basis of arrangements between network owners and users. As set out in the government’s response to the Hydrogen Economic Regulatory Frameworks Consultation, government will lead the development of the Code in partnership with industry and in close collaboration with Ofgem and other relevant stakeholders. DESNZ will host an introductory webinar in April 2026 to outline its proposed engagement approach and the process for developing the first issue of the Code. Industry engagement will take place at two levels: (1) a Code Engagement Forum, open to all Code-relevant stakeholders and intended to provide periodic updates on Code development; and (2) a smaller Code Advisory Group, comprising representatives of interests across hydrogen pipeline networks, with membership determined via an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to be launched during the webinar. The engagement is expected to be relevant to prospective hydrogen producers, transporters, storage providers and offtakers, including industrial users and hydrogen-to-power plants, as well as trade bodies, with further details on selection criteria and Terms of Reference to be provided at the first session.

DESNZ launches consultation on streamlining UK ETS rules for cross-boundary CCS pipelines

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has launched a consultation on proposed changes to the regulatory framework for cross-boundary carbon capture and storage (CCS) pipelines under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), which is jointly administered by the UK ETS Authority, comprising the UK Government, Scottish Government, Welsh Government and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for Northern Ireland (DAERA). The consultation closes on 4 June 2026

DESNZ publishes implementation plan for nuclear regulatory framework reform

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Ministry of Defence have published an implementation plan accepting all recommendations of the independent Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce to reform the UK’s nuclear planning and regulatory framework. The reforms, which the government expects to complete by the end of 2027 subject to legislative timelines, respond to the Taskforce’s finding that the existing system is overly complex and process‑driven. The plan sets out a shift to a proportionate, risk‑based and evidence‑led regulatory model focused on outcomes, intended to reduce the time and cost of delivering civil and defence nuclear infrastructure while maintaining safety, security and environmental protections. The government states that this approach may also inform changes to other major infrastructure regimes. The reforms form part of its wider clean energy and industrial strategy, alongside continued progress on Hinkley Point C, development of Sizewell C, support for small modular reactors at Wylfa and wider efforts to strengthen energy sovereignty and reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets.

Energy weekly highlights—12 March 2026

This week's edition of Energy weekly highlights includes: publications from Ofgem on (1) updated guidance setting out how it intends to select and license code managers pursuant to Energy Act 2023 powers and (2) guidance on regular data reporting requirements for authorised heat network suppliers and operators under the new authorisation framework. In addition this week, Ofgem has issued a call for input seeking stakeholder interest in joining an energy industry working group to support development of the Reformed National Pricing (RNP) programme, following government’s Review of Electricity Market Arrangements (REMA) decision last year. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has also issued a consultation on proposals for reforms to grid connections for demand projects, following the recent rise in demand connection applications after the approval of TMO4+.