The CEG met virtually on 5 December. We spent some time considering the latest position on NGN’s work to support communities and customers, including potential changes to the FPNES scheme and the reallocation of funding to VCMA. A further deep-dive session has been scheduled early in the New Year to consider a report on the capacity of the community sector in the region to respond to additional funds and how NGN can best increase their support to address the cost of living and energy crises.
This was followed by a business briefing from CEO Mark Horsley, and discussion on Ofgem’s early thinking on RIIO-3, and the role of customer challenge in any future energy regulatory framework. This topic will be revisited as more detail and Ofgem’s more considered positions emerge.
We received an overview of the 5 year H21 research project by Tim Harwood. H21 investigated the technical safety aspects of hydrogen in the gas network and key risk factors. The CEG encouraged NGN to consider in more detail safety factors beyond the meter and the group requested a further session on this topic once the accompanying research by Leeds Beckett University has been completed.
The environment is another clear focus for us, and we had requested a presentation on shrinkage (which accounts for 90% of NGN’ carbon emissions and environmental impact; decarbonisation of other areas of NGN’s business carbon footprint; and its tree planting programme to improve air quality in local communities. Discussion followed on proposals for 2022/23 stakeholder engagement and horizon scanning for emerging environmental issues important to stakeholders.
The meeting concluded with a review of recent stakeholder engagement findings and actions; the company’s plans for engagement in 2023 and how it is managing and updating stakeholder contacts to ensure NGN is speaking to the right people about the right issues through appropriate communication channels.
At the closed session, members discussed the topics we wish to consider at our next two scheduled meetings in the New Year which will be held at NGN’s headquarters in Leeds and the Customer Energy Village in Gateshead.