An emissions-reduction firm and an energy monitor company are among the businesses celebrating receiving a Queen’s Award for innovation. Winchester-based RJM International won an award for innovation in the design and manufacture of Ultra-Low NOx Burners for thermal-fired combustion plant.…
News
Energy efficiency must be an industrial strategy priority, say engineering institutions
by Annabel Andrews •
Improving energy efficiency and resource productivity must be a priority in the government’s new industrial strategy, particularly in buildings and energy networks, according to a new report published today that summarises the engineering profession’s response to the government’s industrial strategy…
News
Macquarie-led consortium buys Green Investment Bank for £2.3bn
by Annabel Andrews •
The government has agreed to see the UK Green Investment Bank plc (GIB) to a consortium led by Macquarie, comprising Macquarie Group Limited (Macquarie), Macquarie European Infrastructure Fund 5 (MEIF5) and Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) Climate change and industry minister Nick Hurd said…
News
Is the Secure and Promote liquidity fix fit for purpose?
by Annabel Andrews •
Ofgem is reviewing the Secure and Promote licence condition, starting with a workshop on 2 May. In 2014, the regulator brought in the Secure and Promote Licence Condition, to try to address concerns about the lack of liquidity in the GB…
News
Network operators seek freedom to invest in and manage energy storage
by New Power •
Energy network operators should be allowed to own and operate batteries and other energy storage, the Energy Networks Association (ENA) has said in a response to the government’s consultation on an industrial strategy. Energy networks are currently barred from commercial…
News
Ofgem raises concerns over Scottish heat networks proposals
by Annabel Andrews •
Ofgem has responded to the Scottish government’s Consultation on Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies, and Regulation of District Heating with suggestions on how to regulate the district heat sector. In the letter, Martin Crouch, Ofgem’s senior partner for improving regulation, said: “Any regulatory…
Perspective
OPINION: Energy networks are making too much profit
by New Power •
Morgan Wild, senior policy researcher at Citizens Advice, thinks it is time for Ofgem to re-examine its assumptions. Market comparisons justify lower returns and reduced cost allowances in the next RIIO period Energy networks are making bumper profits. Ofgem’s…
News
Allow onshore wind to compete for CfDs to cut costs, say Baringa Partners
by Annabel Andrews •
A study has found that the UK could deliver 1GW of new onshore wind capacity at no additional cost to consumers over and above the long-term wholesale price of power, according to a new study from Baringa Partners. However, this depends…
News
CCS research centre gets £7.6m funding boost
by Annabel Andrews •
The UK CCS Research Centre (UKCCSRC) has today been awared £7.6 million funding to extend its work for a further five years. The UKCCSRC has been awarded £6.1M by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to continue its…