The Electricity Market Reform (EMR) has been at the forefront of the electricity industry’s mind since late 2010. It proposes reforms that should affect the whole of the UK energy industry.
One of the most critical of the proposed reform is the Contract for Differences (CfD) mechanism that is to be put in place to support low carbon technologies such as renewables and nuclear. The EMR will also see the introduction of a Capacity Market and of binding Emission Performance Standards.
The proposed reforms will be introduced by primary legislation which is anticipated to be in place by the end of 2013. The implementing details will be contained in secondary legislation that will follow in 2014.
Our leading energy practice in London of over 70 dedicated energy lawyers has been following the EMR since its inception. We have brought together our specialists in renewables, nuclear and conventional power to analyse the potential impact the EMR will have on the market in the UK.
These pages consider the key aspects that are relevant to the energy sector and discuss the key issues that should be considered by industry participants.
If you would like to discuss any aspect that is discussed in the following pages, please do not hesitate to get in touch with one of our experts.
The draft Energy Bill 2012 briefing series
On 22 May 2012, the Government released the draft Energy Bill for pre legislative scrutiny along with raft of explanatory documents and impacts statements. The intent is to both create the legislative framework to enable the EMR process to move forward and provide a more detailed update on how the Government envisages key new elements to work in practice.
EMR - White Paper Review
Following publication of the Electricity Market Reform (EMR) consultation, after months of consultation, analysis and lobbying, the Government has published its White Paper ‘Planning our electric future: a White Paper for secure, affordable and low-carbon electricity’ (the White Paper) together with the UK Renewable Energy Roadmap (Roadmap).
View the full briefing on the EMR - White Paper Review - July 2011