The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is a key organization responsible for managing the electricity transmission system in Great Britain, ensuring the reliable and secure supply of energy. NESO operates under regulatory frameworks including EU regulations such as Regulation (EU) No 543/2013, known as the Transparency Regulation. This regulation mandates the submission and publication of electricity generation, transmission, and consumption data on a central European transparency platform operated by the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E). NESO plays a crucial role as a data provider that collects, verifies, and transmits this required information to ENTSO-E’s platform to ensure market transparency, support efficient market operations, and facilitate cross-border energy trading.
NESO’s lobbying activities in the EU are primarily focused on influencing regulatory frameworks and policies that govern electricity markets, grid codes, data transparency, network codes, and balancing markets. NESO advocates for clear, consistent, and practical rules that ensure grid stability while enabling competitive and transparent electricity markets across Europe. Its lobbying involves engagement with EU institutions such as the European Commission, the European Parliament, and regulatory agencies to shape policy development and implementation related to energy system operation standards, data reporting requirements, and market integration initiatives.
NESO collaborates extensively with entities such as ENTSO-E, national transmission system operators, energy market participants, and other industry stakeholders to build consensus and coordinate responses to EU energy policies. It participates in networks addressing transparency, market integrity (e.g., REMIT), and cross-border electricity balancing to advance its objectives and represent Great Britain’s interests within European energy governance.
Financially, NESO’s transparency in lobbying expenditure reflects EU requirements for registration and disclosure. The annual lobbying costs are documented and reported as part of its obligations under the EU Transparency Register, ensuring accountability in its advocacy activities.
Regarding personnel, NESO employs lobbyists with expertise in energy regulation, EU law, market operations, and stakeholder engagement. These professionals enable the firm to navigate complex legislative environments and maintain active dialogues with EU policymakers.
