NESO and ENTSO-e reach new pact on electricity cooperation

Britain’s National Energy System Operator (NESO) and the UK’s main transmission networks and interconnectors have finalised a new working agreement with the European Network of Transmission System Operators (ENTSO-e), bolstering intracontinental cooperation on electricity. 

The new partnership sets the stage for greater electricity cooperation between Great Britain and the EU following the UK’s departure from the EU. Key areas of mutual interest include bolstering security of electricity infrastructure, expanding clean offshore energy planning and enhancing the efficient use of electricity interconnectors. 

 The new deal follows similar working arrangements between the UK’s gas transmission operators and the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Gas (ENTSOG) and between Ofgem and the EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER). 

Fintan Slye, Chief Executive Officer, NESO, said: 

“We warmly welcome these new working arrangements between Great Britain and EU energy networks, recognising the importance of collaboration across our various organisations to strengthen energy security and clean power. 

“We look forward to working closely with ENTSO-e in future to represent the views of our colleagues across the UK’s electricity networks sector.” 

NESO, as Great Britain’s electricity system operator, will represent all British transmission network operators (TNOs) at coordination meetings with ENTSO-e. The agreement complements the commitments outlined by both governments during the UK-EU Summit in May 2025. 

The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) is an association representing 40 electricity transmission system operators (TSOs) from 36 countries across Europe. It manages the Continental Europe Synchronous Area (CESA), which is one of the largest synchronous electrical grids in the world, primarily operating in Europe, supplying over 400 million customers in 32 countries. 

Zbynek Boldis, President of ENTSO-E, said:  

“The signing of these Working Arrangements reflects our shared commitment to maintaining a resilient and interconnected European electricity system.  

“This cooperation enables us to respond jointly to the complex challenges of the energy transition, particularly in offshore development, system operations, and interconnector efficiency. We value the strong and constructive partnership with UK TSOs and look forward to deepening our cooperation in the years ahead.”  

UK TSOs were unable to remain as participating members of ENTSO-e after Brexit, with the exception of the System Operator for Northern Ireland (SONI). However, the post-Brexit Trade and Cooperation Agreement recognised the mutual benefit of continued cooperation in energy matters, which today’s working agreement fulfils.