Ofgem’s methodology for electricity distribution network company price controls is a significant step forwards for the climate. But there is still work to do, including on consumer engagement and research and the uncertainty mechanism for strategic investment.
In December 2020, Slaughter and May completed a major piece of pro bono work for Sustainability First analysing the extent to which the legal and regulatory frameworks of the energy, water and telecommunications industries create barriers (or facilitate) the pursuit of sustainability initiatives.
The Energy White Paper highlights the need to ensure that the energy transition is fair and affordable. But what does a just transition mean in practice? Decisions in this area can be complex but need wider debate if we are to build public support for change.
Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) is a man-made greenhouse gas with a warming potential 23,000 times that of carbon-dioxide. Long-lived and potent, it is widely used as an effective insulator in electricity substation switch-gear and circuit breakers. Equipment containing SF6 is found at every network voltage. Also in wind-turbine circuit breakers.