Gas Markets
The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform is working with other departments to reform the regulatory framework for both onshore and offshore Gas Supply Infrastructure. The Planning Bill, introduced on November 27th 2007, involves the cooperation of multiple Government departments to establish a more streamlined and transparent planning system for Nationally Significant Infrastructure, including Gas Supply Infrastructure.
In the Energy Bill, which is due to go before Parliament in this session, the Department intends to establish a clear regulatory framework for offshore Gas Supply Infrastructure for the first time. Both of these Bills will work to reduce the uncertainty surrounding planning applications for Gas Supply Infrastructure that acts as a disincentive to investment.
In May 2007 the Department launched a consultation Guidance on the Gas Act 1965, under which licensed Gas Transporters proposing to store gas in natural porous strata onshore seek consent from the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry: A consultation. This sought views on the draft guidance aimed at clarifying the processes and functions of the gas Act 1965. The Government’s response to the issues brought up during that consultation will be released in the near future.
BERR published the first comprehensive Energy Markets Outlook document in October 2007 giving detailed information on energy issues and projections covering the all energy market sectors. Chapter 5 of this document is dedicated to the UK gas market.