The UK government is set to create the Great British Grid (GB Grid), a publicly owned body within Great British Energy, according to a statement from the Labour Party reported by Reuters. The announcement is due to be made by Prime Minister Andy Burnham during his Labour Party conference speech.
The proposed GB Grid would expand government involvement in electricity network infrastructure and renewable energy connections. Its stated aims include speeding up grid connections for businesses, increasing competition and supporting reindustrialisation.
Burnham is also expected to set a target of bringing UK energy costs into line with those of other European countries within 10 years. The Labour Party said the proposed changes are intended to help reduce energy bills.
The announcement comes as grid connection capacity remains an issue for new electricity generation and other projects. The Reuters report does not provide further details on the proposed GB Grid's structure, funding or timetable.
