Green GEN Cymru welcomes publication of transitional regional energy strategic plan 

Green GEN Cymru has been referenced in the newly published Transitional Regional Energy Strategic Plan (tRESP), marking an important step forward in national recognition of the role independent distribution networks can play in enabling Wales’s energy transition.

The tRESP, published by the National Energy System Operator (NESO), is the first formal output of the new Regional Energy Strategic Planning framework. It provides a strategic, system-wide view of electricity transmission and distribution needs across Great Britain and will inform network planning and investment decisions ahead of the next price control period (RIIO-ED3, 2028–33). 

Within the Wales context, the publication highlights Green GEN Cymru as an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) with proposals to develop new electricity distribution infrastructure linking Mid Wales to South West Wales and Shropshire. The plan recognises the role of these networks in connecting renewable energy projects to the transmission system at Llandyfaelog, Carmarthenshire, and Lower Frankton, Shropshire. 

The Wales tRESP also underlines the structural challenges facing the Welsh electricity system, including the concentration of transmission infrastructure in North and South Wales and the relative absence of transmission capacity in Mid Wales. Addressing these constraints is identified as a key consideration for future energy planning and investment. 

Jean Lewis, Director of Network Operations at Green GEN Cymru, said: 

“The tRESP provides a clear, evidence-based picture of the challenges facing the electricity system in Wales. Recognition of our proposed distribution networks reflects the practical role these projects can play in connecting renewable generation to the transmission system and addressing long-standing constraints, particularly in Mid Wales.” 

Fiona Morrison, Head of Regulation at Green GEN Cymru, added: 

“The publication of the tRESP is an important step in establishing a more coordinated and strategic approach to energy planning. Having independent distribution solutions reflected within this national framework helps create greater alignment between policy, regulation, and delivery.” 

The tRESP is intended as a transitional document, bridging current planning arrangements and the full Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs), which NESO will develop and publish from 2028 onwards. Green GEN Cymru will continue to engage closely with NESO, regulators, government, and other stakeholders as the RESP process evolves, ensuring that Wales’s energy potential can be unlocked in a timely, coordinated, and sustainable way. 

Details of the Transitional Regional Energy Strategic Plan can be found on the NESO website: transitional Regional Energy Strategic Plan (tRESP) Consultation | National Energy System Operator