The Utility Regulator has published a consultation on modifications to NIE Network’s distribution license, all gas distribution licences, NI Water’s licence and all electricity and gas supply licences. A new licence condition is required to implement the Code of Practice (CoP) for Consumers in Vulnerable Circumstances.
These licence modifications follow on from a previous consultation and the publication of our Best Practice Framework decision paper on the introduction of the new CoP.
The objective of the new CoP is to better identify, support and protect consumers in vulnerable circumstances.
In addition, as part of our ongoing commitment to being a best practice regulator, the relevance of NI Water’s licence conditions continue to be reviewed in conjunction with the company. Through this ongoing process, we have identified some non-contentious licence modifications (in addition to the best practice framework changes) that could be made to help reduce the regulatory burden and better align the licence with current regulatory processes and requirements. These are highlighted within the relevant consultation papers.
The relevant Notices are being published for consultation to introduce the new licence conditions to implement the new Code of Practice for Consumers in Vulnerable Circumstances:
- Notice under Article 14(2) of the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992;
- Notice under Article 14(2) of the Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996; and
- Notice under Article 20(2) of the Water and Sewerage Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006.
This licence condition applies to NIE Network’s distribution license, all gas conveyance (distribution) licences, NI Water’s licence and all electricity and gas supply licences.
Further information on the consultation and how to respond can be found within our consultation section.