Decision on Data Assurance Guidance for Electricity Distribution Companies
Decision
Publication date
Industry sector
Distribution Network
This is our decision following consultation on new data assurance requirements for all electricity distribution companies. The proposed requirements are set out in the Data Assurance Guidance (DAG) and associated reporting templates.
The receipt of robust data from network companies is essential to enable Ofgem to effectively carry out its role as regulator. It is important for assessing network companies’ price control forecasts, explaining to customers what is being delivered in return for the revenue that network companies are allowed to earn, and to monitor performance against the price control settlements. Network companies have a responsibility to ensure that all data they submit to Ofgem is robust and fit for purpose. The purpose of the DAG is to provide assurances to Ofgem that this is the case.
We published a consultation on the DAG on 17 December. We received nine responses to this consultation. We fully considered the views of network companies during the consultation period and have made minor changes to the DAG documents where it was considered appropriate to do so.
The DAG will require network companies to:
- carry out risk assessments on the data they submit
- plan data assurance activities, and take appropriate actions on the findings that are proportionate to the risk of a submission.
- consider ways to improve their systems and process for submitting data to Ofgem and to take appropriate measures to reduce risks.
- report on the above to Ofgem.
These requirements will take effect from 1 April 2015.