Akshay Kaul
Director General for Infrastructure, Ofgem
From powering major seasonal events and rising electricity demand to AI and data centres, the challenge is constant: keeping the power on today while preparing for a cleaner, smarter energy future.
For Britain’s energy system, there’s no summer slowdown. That is where Ofgem comes in.
Ofgem’s role is to ensure the transition to clean power is fair, affordable and secure, delivering for consumers now and for future generations. Through investment decisions, connections reform and smarter energy solutions, we are helping build the infrastructure Britain needs while holding companies to account for every pound consumers pay.
As the Government’s Clean Power 2030 target draws closer, the pace of change is accelerating. We are helping deliver the biggest overhaul of Britain’s electricity transmission network in decades, alongside new electricity distribution price controls and continued scrutiny of new major transmission projects.
Our priority is clear: challenge costs, improve efficiency and approve investment only where it delivers long-term consumer value.
Clean power is not only about building new infrastructure,
but about making better use of what already exists.
Unblocking the queue for clean energy
A faster clean energy transition depends on getting viable projects connected to the grid. Ofgem is working with the National Energy System Operator and Government to make connections quicker, fairer and easier to navigate, so projects that are ready to proceed can connect sooner.
Demand for connections is rising rapidly, driven partly by AI and data centres. Ofgem has consulted on measures to discourage speculative applications and prioritise projects that can be delivered.
Making the system smarter
Clean power is not only about building new infrastructure, but about making better use of what already exists.
Flexible technologies such as batteries, long-duration electricity storage and smarter demand can help balance the grid, support renewable generation and strengthen energy security. Ofgem is supporting reforms that encourage investment in these technologies while protecting consumers.
Delivering for consumers
The transition will succeed only if consumers see the benefits through a more secure energy system and less exposure to volatile international gas markets.
That’s the work Ofgem is doing now: helping connect clean power faster, making better use of existing infrastructure and ensuring consumers remain at the heart of the transition.
