The UR has today published its final determination paper on the price control for Northern Ireland’s gas distribution networks for 2014-2016 (GD14). GD14 is the distribution price control for Phoenix Natural Gas Limited (PNGL) and firmus energy (FE) which will run from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016. It is the fifth price control for PNGL and the third price control for FE.
This price control details an efficient level of revenue to allow PNGL and firmus energy to finance the ongoing investment in and operation of their gas networks, for the period 2014-2016.
• The determination results in a reduction to current distribution charges for the average domestic customer – around £23 per annum for PNGL customers and £50 for FE customers.
• For industrial and commercial (I&C) customers, particularly large ones, the reduction will be greater given their higher consumption levels.
• Distribution charges make up around 35% of the total domestic customer bill.
• Our final determination sets targets for an additional 43,334 customers to connect to gas and allows 344km of additional gas pipelines to be laid.
The publication of the final determination follows a period of public consultation on draft determination proposals published in July 2014. 7 responses were received and can be viewed below.
Each response has been carefully considered, along with the business plans submitted by PNGL and firmus energy. A detailed response to the consultation submissions can be viewed here.
A paper copy of the determination paper can be obtained from:
Paul Harland
Utility Regulator
Queens House
14 Queen Street
Belfast
BT1 6ED
Email: paul.harland@uregni.gov.uk
Tel: 028 9031 6652
Copies of the determination paper and any accompanying documents will also be made available in large print, Braille, audio cassette and a variety of relevant minority languages if required.