The physical infrastructure of the GB electricity market

In broad terms, the physical infrastructure of the great britain (GB) electricity market can be divided up as follows:

1. •

   generators—these installations produce the electricity. They are connected to what is colloquially referred to as ‘the grid’, so that they can ‘export’ electricity for conveyance to the consumer’s premises. Electricity storage solutions are classed for licensing purposes as generators, as has been reflected in section 213 of the Energy Act 2023. For more information on generators generally, see Practice Notes: Great Britain electricity generation, distribution and supply licensing and exemptions regime and The Great Britain electricity market—an introduction. For more information on electricity storage, see: Energy storage—overview, and Practice Notes: The planning regime for energy storage in England and Wales, Energy storage—the evolving regulatory regime and renewable subsidy position

2. •

   interconnectors—interconnectors are high-voltage connections between the electricity systems of two countries; this allows electricity to be traded across borders. Interconnectors share a number of physical characteristics with offshore transmission lines but are licensed separately and are subject