The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is calling on organisations in Wales to contribute to future energy planning, with a bespoke energy plan for Wales being developed as part of its remit to produce Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESP) across Great Britain.
Wales has long led the way in producing power and generating electricity, and now has an opportunity to shape the next generation of energy planning too. Wales's distinctive geography means it has the natural resources needed to power Welsh industry and households with clean energy, and it has the expertise to take advantage of the energy transition thanks to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its people.
Bespoke plan for Wales
NESO, the independent public body responsible for designing the future energy system, is pledging to work with organisations and people across Wales on developing an energy system that delivers for Wales. Welsh input is being sought for the bespoke energy plan, and NESO is inviting organisations and stakeholders to express an interest in becoming involved in the governance and engagement structures that will support the Welsh RESP. Expressions of interest are open until 9 October.
Laura Lotinga, NESO Director of Corporate Affairs, said: “We want to build a bespoke energy plan for Wales to shape the future.” She added that Welsh skills and knowledge are vital as NESO focuses on designing the more affordable, secure and sustainable energy system needed to ensure the transition is successful.
Strategic plans and Welsh examples
Given the importance of Wales and its energy sector, and the fundamental role that energy plays in developing economic plans, Welsh priorities will be reflected in the decisions that shape the future. Wales's industrial heritage means it has often led the way on energy, with examples including the “electric mountain” hydropower station at Dinorwig, the Pen y Cymoedd Onshore Wind Farm, and the Gwyndod Power Station on Anglesey.
NESO experts are developing a suite of strategic plans that will determine what the energy system looks like for decades to come. For the first time, a long-term view is being brought together of what Great Britain's energy system will need, where infrastructure may be required, and how growth and investment can be supported through better planning.
Opportunity for Welsh stakeholders
NESO's Strategic Energy Plans have been divided into three main strands: the Centralised Strategic Network Plan, the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan, and the Regional Energy Strategic Plans. These plans will look at the networks, storage, and local energy needs that will shape Britain's future energy system, but they will only be strong if informed by the people and organisations who understand local opportunities and challenges.
The Welsh Regional Strategic Plan gives businesses, local government, academia, the third sector, and community organisations in Wales a direct opportunity to feed in their expertise before decisions are made. By listening to Welsh stakeholders, the RESP will provide a clearer strategic picture of future energy needs and opportunities across Wales, helping to reduce uncertainty, support investment decisions, and ensure future planning better reflects the needs and ambitions of Welsh communities. It also provides an opportunity for Wales to influence the conversation early, before key decisions are made rather than after.
