The Offshore Transmission Coordination Project (OTCG) was established by Ofgem and DECC in early 2011. It has been assessing the potential costs, risks and benefits that may arise from the development of a coordinated offshore and onshore electricity transmission network.
The Offshore Transmission Coordination Group met over the course of 2011 to consider the evidence and analysis as it developed. Expert workshops, involving a range of different stakeholders, were also held to explore some of the finer detail. The dates of the meetings, workshops and event can be found at this link: Offshore Transmission Coordination Project meeting dates.
The project was supported by two consultants, TNEI/PPA Energy and Redpoint Energy, who provided specialist input and advice. Their analysis suggested that pursuing a coordinated approach to developing the offshore transmission network could result in an 8-15% cost reduction when compared to using single, standalone connections to shore (known as a 'radial approach'). These savings could benefit consumers and contribute to the Government's target of reducing the costs of offshore wind (development, construction and operations) to £100 per megawatt hour (MWh) by 2020.
Click here to access the full findings of the consultants: coordination consultants’ reports page.
Ofgem/DECC Conclusions Report
The joint Ofgem/DECC Conclusions Report sets out the findings from the project and the key actions being taken forward to address potential barriers identified. These barriers include: planning an efficient network, the approach to anticipatory investment, consenting, risk-reward profile for coordinated investments, regulatory boundaries, and technology and supply chain.
Click here to download the report: Ofgem/DECC Conclusions Report
Consultation on potential changes to the offshore regulatory framework to support efficient network coordination
Ofgem ran a consultation between 1 March and 26 April 2012 to seek views on potential measures to support efficient coordination. The core of the consultation sought views on potential improvements to the network planning process and on possible changes to the approach for anticipatory investment in offshore transmission infrastructure.
Click here to download the consultation document: Consultation on potential changes to the offshore regulatory framework to support efficient network coordination.
Although we may be unable to consider responses received after the consultation deadline, where practicable late responses will be taken into account. However, we cannot guarantee that any responses received after the deadline will be considered.