Domestic energy provider Octopus is challenging the National Grid by planning to construct its electricity pylons, driven by dissatisfaction with the current network expansion rate.
Greg Jackson, Octopus’s CEO, revealed that the company has engaged in discussions with Ofgem, the sector’s regulator, about introducing competitive elements into the power grid’s planning and construction processes.
Octopus contends that it can more rapidly and efficiently build parts of the high-voltage transmission network – the core of the electricity system – than the National Grid. This, they argue, would accelerate the deployment of renewable energy.
Such a move would disrupt the National Grid’s three-decade monopoly over transmission infrastructure in England and Wales. This comes in response to grievances from wind and solar farm operators, who lament the Grid’s sluggish expansion, causing them to face up to ten years of delay in connecting to the system.
As Britain transitions towards net zero, there is a need to construct thousands of new pylons across the country. Moving away from oil and gas will increase the electricity demand, necessitating additional infrastructure to transport power to homes and businesses.
Octopus gained a presence in the electricity infrastructure sector following its acquisition of Eclipse Power Networks, a company based in Buckingham, in 2021.
Currently, Eclipse focuses on constructing small-scale, local power distribution networks. However, Mr. Jackson is aiming to broaden the company’s scope to include transmission infrastructure as well.
