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Beyond 2030 - Electricity Transmission Update

Beyond 2030 published in March 2024 set out a national view of the electricity transmission network Britain needs in the 2030s. This update builds on that work. It explains what has changed, what has not, and how updated evidence affects near‑term transmission decisions for Ofgem to consider.   ​

The update provides clear, up‑to‑date advice on system need, timing and value for money. This is ahead of the whole-energy Centralised Strategic Network Plan (CSNP), due in 2028 which will bring together future network planning for electricity, gas and hydrogen. It reflects changes in policy and system context, including the UK Government Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, updated Future Energy Scenarios (FES), Connections Reform  and new proposals from Transmission Operators (TOs).  ​

Above all, it supports a reliable electricity system today and helps design a reliable, clean and cost-effective energy system for the future.

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Beyond 2030 - Electricity Transmission Update Report

Discover more about our recommendations for how the offshore and onshore networks should develop throughout the 2030s. For the best online experience, explore the report on a laptop/desktop.

Download the interactive report

Key messages from the report​

  • Reconfirms the electricity transmission network needed to enable a reliable, clean and affordable system into the mid-2030s.
  • Ensures timely delivery of network to meet the needs of consumers and keep costs down for bill payers.​
  • Increases capacity for more home-grown clean energy, reducing reliance on volatile international energy markets.​
  • Supports economic growth and job creation across Great Britain.​
  • Recommends a greater share of offshore cabling and prioritises onshore upgrades where possible to best meet future needs whilst minimising impacts.
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What are the next steps?​

For recommendations of near-term options where system need is clear and offers strong value for money for consumers. NESO recommends early investment in these to enable timely delivery.

For recommendations of longer-term options where delivery is required after the mid-2030s, further development is still needed. ​ 

For these options, we will gather insight from the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan and work with the regulator and the Transmission Owners to determine how to progress these options through to delivery. This will include establishing which will benefit from further assessment through the enduring Centralised Strategic Network Plan. ​

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Electricity Networks Explainer

Electricity Networks Explainer package offers a comprehensive view of GB’s electricity transmission network, including how it is changing and why this change is needed. 

The package’s two publications act as a guide, supporting people of all backgrounds and knowledge levels in understanding how decisions are made across the network. The publications also discuss the trade-offs between different technologies and the various organisations involved in the process. 

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Electricity Transmission Design Principles (ETDP)

The Electricity Transmission Design Principles (ETDP) provide clear guidance on how design choices for electricity transmission infrastructure should be made. They are intended to support consistent decision-making, give greater clarity for developers and help communities understand how options are assessed. 

Electricity Transmission Design Principles (ETDP)

Beyond 2030 Electricity Transmission Update - annexes

Technical Report

Explains how we assessed reinforcement options to form the recommended transmission network design in accordance with our methodology.

Stakeholder Engagement & Feedback Report

Outlines how we have embedded stakeholder engagement into our process and considered the feedback we have received in shaping our recommendations.

Find out more

A Holistic Network Design for Offshore Wind

A closer look at what is needed to connect 23GW of offshore wind by 2030.

Electricity Ten Year Statement

ETYS is the NESO’s view of future transmission requirements and the capability of GB’s National Electricity Transmission System (NETS) over the next ten years.

NOA Refresh

Learn more about the wider onshore network requirements needed to achieve the 2030 ambition.

Offshore Coordination

Find out more about the Offshore Coordination.

Web map

Visit our web map to have a look at the requirements for the future transmission network.

NOA Committee meeting minutes and Terms of Reference

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Our NOA Committee scrutinises the results in the NOA to ensure our recommendations are the most efficient for all.

We have included the meeting minutes as far back as 2019. If you would like to request previous meeting minutes please let us know [email protected].