Ofgem, in collaboration with the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), has established a new regulatory regime for offshore transmission networks to ensure that new offshore renewable generation projects are connected to the GB electricity grid economically and efficiently.
A key part of the regime is the grant of Offshore Transmission Licences on the basis of a competitive Tender Process. Ofgem is responsible for managing this process. For more information please see Ofgem's role in offshore transmission.
Tender processes under the new offshore regime:
| Process |
Status |
| Round One Transitional Tenders |
In Progress |
| Round Two Transitional Tenders |
To commence in Summer 2010 |
| Enduring Tenders |
Consultation on the regulatory framework and design of the competitive tender process has now closed. We will publish our final policy statement in summer 2010. |
The Offshore Transmission electronic tendering portal
Please follow this link to the Offshore Transmission Electronic Tendering Portal ("Tendering Portal" - link opens in a new browser page) where you can register to participate in the tender process.
Legal framework for competitive tender process
The Energy Act 2004 inserted section 6C into the Electricity Act 1989 which provides Ofgem with the power to make Tender Regulations. The Electricity (Competitive Tender for Offshore Transmission Licences) Regulations 2009 (the Tender Regulations) set out the current legal framework and powers for Ofgem to run a competitive tender process for both transitional and enduring projects. The Tender Regulations include the process requirements for Ofgem, as well as for developers and bidders.
For more information please follow these links to the Energy Act 2004, Electricity Act 1989 and the Tender Regulations.