Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he has had with relevant stakeholders on rewiring existing (a) distribution and (b) transmission grid infrastructure.

The reinforcement of our electricity network is critical to deliver clean, secure power to homes and businesses across the country. This reinforcement includes both new infrastructure, on and offshore, and upgrades to existing lines which are always considered first. Transmission and distribution companies are carrying out significant upgrades to increase the capacity of existing lines on their networks. However, upgrading will not eliminate the need for new lines as it will not be sufficient to provide the necessary network capacity in all areas.