Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what assessment he has made of the effect of the Targeted Charging Review on the business case for renewable energy to be merchantable without subsidy.

Ofgem’s Targeted Charging Review is seeking to ensure all parties connected to the electricity network make a fair contribution to the fixed network costs. As was outlined in the ‘After the Trilemma’ speech of 15 November 2018, it is important that we develop an energy system that discourages free riding and ensures a fair distribution of costs.

Network charging is a matter for Ofgem as the independent regulator, and decisions on its Targeted Charging Review are for it to make. However, Government is working to understand the policy implications of Ofgem’s review proposals across a broad range of interests, including renewable energy. Ofgem’s published analysis shows there is a risk that the proposals could affect the investment decisions of some renewable energy projects, and this view is reflected in stakeholder feedback.