Citizens Advice response to ESO consultation: “Offshore Coordination consultation”

Citizens Advice response to ESO consultation: “Offshore Coordination consultation” [ 130 kb]

We welcome this ESO consultation which uses a systems approach to considers how to better coordinate the development of offshore wind and interconnectors to reduce overall long term impacts and costs for consumers. We think the cost benefit analysis (CBA) provided strongly makes the case that an integrated approach offshore has the potential to save consumers money. The ESO estimates £6 billion, or 18 per cent, in the capital and operating expenditure between now and 2050 by reducing duplication and avoiding a range of expensive pinch points on the network. The approach could reduce environmental and societal impacts offshore and for coastal areas by minimising infrastructure developments. There will also be economic and commercial benefits from a clearer delivery approach, alongside a policy commitment to offshore wind development, which is likely to benefit numerous communities.