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Representation by National Grid Electricity Distribution (East Midlands) plc (National Grid Electricity Distribution (East Midlands) plc)

Date submitted
16 May 2023
Submitted by
Other statutory consultees
  1. Project Reference: EN010132. Relevant Representation submitted by Osborne Clarke LLP on behalf of National Grid Electricity Distribution (East Midlands) plc ("NGED"). 2. Osborne Clarke LLP act for NGED whose registered office is at Avonbank, Feeder Road, Bristol, BS2 0TB. NGED is the licensed distribution network operator under Section 6 Electricity Act 1989 (the "EA 1989") for the area in which the West Burton Solar Project DCO 202* (the "Order") is proposed to have effect. Section 9 of the EA 1989 places a duty on NGED as the electricity distributor to develop and maintain an efficient, co-ordinated and economical system of electricity distribution. 3. The application was received by the Planning Inspectorate on 21 March 2023 and accepted on 18 April 2023. 4. The application includes land in or upon which NGED may have assets and which may include (but are not limited to) high voltage electricity cables. NGED is currently reviewing the draft Order setting out the Authorised Development to establish the extent to which their apparatus and interests are affected. 5. While NGED will continue to seek to have positive engagement with the applicant in relation to the project, NGED needs to ensure that the wider powers being sought in the Order will not have a detrimental impact on NGED's electricity network and its duties under the EA 1989. This includes ensuring acceptable terms of any proposed protective provisions. 6. NGED is therefore making this representation as a holding objection to the application until an asset protection arrangement has been agreed between the parties. No formal agreement has yet been concluded and accordingly we are lodging this representation to protect NGED's position pending conclusion of an appropriate agreement. Once NGED is satisfied that its network is protected, we will notify the Planning Inspectorate promptly and withdraw the objection.