Ofgem, the energy market regulator in the UK, aims to maintain Britain’s gas import capacity from mainland European connections to ensure the ability to import gas in situations of high demand.
Ofgem permitted Interconnector Limited to form an agreement, per its license, with National Gas Transmission plc to enhance gas import capacity via the Great Britain-Belgium interconnector.
The UK is linked to mainland Europe via multiple interconnectors, allowing gas to move in both directions based on demand locations.
These pipelines connecting the UK's gas system to hubs in Belgium and the Netherlands are used infrequently for gas imports. The majority of the gas imported by the UK is sourced from Norway through pipelines and from other gas exporters as LNG.
Ofgem stated today that the capacity for gas imports into the British market via the continental interconnectors has diminished in recent years, attributed to decreased commercial incentives for imports from Europe and particular technical reductions in interconnector capacity.
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Nonetheless, the regulator acknowledged that these interconnectors "offer a crucial alternative during times of exceptionally high demand, like extreme winter conditions," as it launched a consultation that will last until November 20, 2026, regarding the maintenance of the current capacity.
“Preserving the ability to import via continental interconnectors has been recognized as a crucial step to bolster resilience by improving the gas system's capability to handle more difficult scenarios in the rare chance that they occur,” stated Glenn Bryn-Jacobsen, Energy Systems and Resilience Director at National Gas.
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Jack Presley Abbott, Director of Energy Systems Management and Security at Ofgem, stated, “It is crucial to maintain these vital gas connections as the energy system undergoes longer-term transformations. We have authorized the necessary agreement to uphold this vital capability and are therefore seeking input on the suggested regulatory framework for recouping its expenses.
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On Wednesday, the UK government granted approval for the long-awaited Jackdaw gas field, marking the first endorsement of a new North Sea project since the Iranian conflict raised energy costs. Jackdaw may begin supplying gas to UK homes and businesses as early as this month, following the UK Energy Secretary's approval for the regulator to authorize production at the field.