Regional Energy Strategic Plan policy framework decision
Decision
- Publication date
- Industry sector
- Distribution Network
As we move to a net zero energy system, reform of energy system planning will play a key role in achieving the UK’s 2030 goals. We are introducing the Regional Energy Strategic Plan (RESP) to deliver accountability and coordination for strategic planning of the distribution system. RESPs will be delivered by the independent National Energy System Operator (NESO). They will convene regional stakeholders around a common view of how the energy system will develop to support local priorities and deliver national goals. By enabling coordinated development across multiple vectors, RESP will support confident and efficient investment toward net zero.
This decision sets out the policy framework for the RESP. It follows on from our review of local governance and institutional arrangements, commencing with a call for input in April 2022, a consultation in March 2023, a decision to establish RESPs in November 2023, and a consultation on our proposed policy framework in July 2024. In considering our decision, we have benefitted from extensive feedback through over 130 consultation responses, well-attended webinars and working groups, and further engagement with a wide range of stakeholders.
In this policy framework we summarise consultation responses and set out our decisions on:
- the guiding principles underpinning the RESPs
- the components of a RESP
- their interaction with other forms of planning
- how NESO will deliver the RESPs
- governance structures for the RESP
- the RESP boundaries
Following on from this decision, we will be consulting on license changes and accompanying guidance in coming months to underpin the roles of NESO and network companies in developing the REPSs and integrating them into network planning processes. We will also continue to work closely with NESO as they develop the transitional RESP outputs due for publication in early 2026 and the first full suite of RESPs in late 2027.