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24 April 2024 - Energy Security and Net Zero Committee - Oral evidence session

Committee Energy Security and Net Zero Committee
Inquiries Pre-appointment hearing for the Chair of the National Energy System Operator, A flexible grid for the future

Wednesday 24 April 2024

Start times: 9:30am (private) 10:00am (public)


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10am - Chair of the National Energy System Operator: ESNZ Committee to hold pre-appointment hearing

11am - A flexible grid for the future: ESNZ Committee to question Minister Justin Tomlinson MP

Meeting details

At 10:00am: Oral evidence
Work Pre-appointment hearing for the Chair of the National Energy System Operator (Pre-appointment hearing)
At 11:00am: Oral evidence
Inquiry A flexible grid for the future

From 10am

The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee holds a pre-appointment hearing with Dr Paul Golby, the Government’s preferred candidate for Chair of the National Energy System Operator (NESO).

NESO is the new public corporation responsible for planning Britain’s electricity and gas networks and operating the electricity system. Due to be launched this summer, it will be responsible for ensuring that Britain’s energy system is secure, affordable and sustainable.

The hearing with Mr Golby, the current Chair of the National Air Traffic Service, will test his suitability for the position. He is likely to be asked about his plans and priorities for NESO, his views on the challenges facing the energy sector and how the new body fits into the energy infrastructure of the UK.

Following the session, the Committee will publish a short report on the candidate’s suitability for the Government to consider.

From 11am

The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee’s inquiry into the actions needed to ensure the UK has the right infrastructure to deliver future capacity while supporting the development of renewable energy concludes with a session with Minister Justin Tomlinson.

Mr Tomlinson will face questions on the issues raised so far in the flexible grid for the future inquiry. He could be asked about Government policy on zonal pricing and strategic planning, while there could also be questions on planning policy in relation to onshore wind.

The Committee is also likely to ask what the Government is doing to address supply chain constraints and skills shortages in the energy sector and about the latest position on the roll out of smart meters.

Location

Room 16, Palace of Westminster

How to attend