Electricity grid
Our aims
We want to see an electricity network that places Scotland’s consumers, economy and society at the heart of our energy systems, supporting:
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an inclusive transition to a decarbonised energy system
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a whole system approach across heat, transport and electricity
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smarter, local energy models
Background
As we continue to decarbonise Scotland’s economy, the way in which we generate and use electricity is changing. Large centralised thermal power plants are giving way to smaller scale, more highly distributed sources of generation, largely from renewable sources. Our pipeline of renewable projects, which will play a key role in decarbonising the GB power system, is also one of Scotland’s greatest economic opportunities.
This means that significant investment is required in network infrastructure to unlock this economic opportunity. We need to ensure that power that is generated from increasingly renewable sources can be transported to where it is needed – to our homes, businesses, and communities across Scotland and Great Britain.
About the electricity network
The electricity network in Scotland is operated by:
- Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN)
- Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN)
These two companies are responsible for both the transmission (high-voltage) and distribution (low-voltage) networks across Scotland. We want to ensure that these electricity network companies in Scotland can respond to this energy transition and help decarbonise the economy without compromising on their ability to provide a secure, resilient supply of electricity.
Energy policy
Energy policy is largely reserved to the UK Government and the Scottish Government has no formal role in the regulation of the electricity system apart from our statutory planning and consenting processes.
Electricity network legislation
Legislation and regulations relating to electricity networks are reserved to the UK Government, while the National Energy System Operator (NESO) is responsible for the strategic planning and real-time operation of the electricity and gas systems across Great Britain. Regulation of the GB electricity network including approval of investment on infrastructure is carried out by the independent energy regulator, Ofgem.
Find out more about strategic planning for Scotland's energy system.