Towards the end of last year, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) launched its consultation seeking views on its proposed methodology to develop the UK’s Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP). First announced in August 2023 as part of the Nick Winser review, the SSEP aims to map out what energy infrastructure is needed, where, and when – taking a comprehensive whole systems approach to the UK’s future energy landscape.
The methodology NESO is consulting on will determine how this plan is delivered, marking the first step toward creating a cohesive framework for spatial energy planning in Great Britain. With the consultation deadline just two weeks away (20 January 2025), businesses across the energy sector must act now to ensure their perspectives are considered in this process.
The context
In October 2024, the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments jointly tasked the NESO with producing the SSEP for Great Britain. While this first iteration is concentrated on electricity generation, storage, and hydrogen, future versions of the SSEP are likely to address additional aspects of the UK’s energy system. The strategic and long-term nature of the SSEP makes it essential for all stakeholders – across and beyond the initial scope – to engage fully and contribute their insights.
What is NESO consulting on?
NESO’s proposed methodology sets the foundation for how the plan will be created, looking at economic, environmental, and societal insights to enable a more strategic approach to planning energy infrastructure. NESO’s proposed methodology sets out five key pillars that will be taken into account:
- Economic Factors: Delivering cost-efficient energy solutions.
- Societal Impact: Ensuring benefits for communities and regions.
- Environmental Protection: Minimising environmental disruption.
- Technical Feasibility: Ensuring reliability and operability.
- Integration with Other Spatial Uses: Balancing energy needs with competing land use
Stakeholders should pay close attention to the considerations within these pillars, as they will guide decisions on what infrastructure goes where. The methodology will ultimately shape how the UK navigates its energy transition, balancing decarbonisation goals, affordability, and security of supply.
A reminder on the importance of the SSEP
The SSEP forms a key part of the move to more strategic energy planning. It marks the first time that energy supply and demand considerations will be considered in the UK’s broader energy system planning.
The outputs of the SSEP will directly inform key strategies, including the Centralised Strategic Network Plan and the 2030 Centralised Plan, while also influencing future updates to National Policy Statements. By contributing to the consultation, stakeholders can help ensure the methodology reflects the practical challenges and opportunities of delivering a secure, affordable, and sustainable energy system.
Conclusion & next steeps
The consultation is open until Monday 20 January 2025. Key delivery dates moving forward have been set out as:
- Final approved methodology published – Spring 2025
- Pathway options presented to UK Energy Secretary – by end of 2025
- Draft SSEP published for consultation – Spring 2026
- Final SSEP published – by end of 2026
NESO’s consultation offers a key opportunity to influence one of the most significant energy planning initiatives taking place. With the methodology laying the foundation for spatial energy planning across Great Britain, it is imperative for businesses, across the energy system to contribute their insights.
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