Regulation

Drawing a line under PR19

The publication of the Competition and Market Authority(CMA)'s water redeterminations justify why a record four companies sought an appeal. With gains made on all sides Utility Week explores what has been won and lost.

Gemserv urges Ofgem to issue strategic directions to code managers

Gemserv has called on the energy regulator to give strategic directions to code managers to guide their decision-making as one of a number of early improvements to governance ahead of more significant reforms. The company, which administers the Master Registration Agreement and the Smart Energy Code, said the regulator should also introduce new financial incentives for performance and funding for innovation.

Pollard: We need to turn water industry on its head

Cost of Capital Institute needed to inform regulation

Pettigrew: WPD deal will bring ‘complementary strengths’

National Grid chief executive John Pettigrew’s has set out the rationale for the acquisition of Western Power Distribution, as well as defending the price paid. He also said “only time will tell” exactly how much of National Grid’s gas transmission business will be sold off but denied that the disposal marked the beginning of a full retreat from the sector.

Regulatory appeals should be ‘harmonised’ between energy and water

Energy credit balance reforms should ‘herald the end’ of advanced payment

CMA narrows gap with Ofwat on cost of capital

The CMA has set the cost of capital for the four water companies that rejected their price review last February. The new figure of 3.2 per cent is closer to Ofwat’s final determinations than the CMA's provisional findings in September.

Ofgem proposes £1.4bn credit balance overhaul

Energy retailers could soon be required to automatically refund surplus consumer credit balances as part of a regulatory clampdown on unsustainable business practices. According to research by Ofgem £1.4 billion was held in surplus credit balances in October 2018.

Integrated North Sea power grid could save up to £70bn

Water efficiency will be central to PR24

Ofgem considers further Covid adjustments for price cap

Ofgem is again considering whether to adjust the default tariff cap to allow suppliers to recover costs due to the impact of Covid-19.

RIIO2 appeals present headache for CMA

All eight of the gas and transmission networks are appealing Ofgem’s final determinations for RIIO2. But, what arguments have they put forward and what are their chances of success? Former Ofgem executive Maxine Frerk summarises the points raised and the challenges they pose for the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA).

Cost of capital for ED2 revealed

EV tariff bundles present confusing picture for consumers

Electric vehicle (EV) tariff bundles being offered by energy retailers are complicated and difficult to compare, a new Citizens Advice report has concluded. The consumer charity said this could result in them choosing tariffs unsuitable for their needs.