The CEO of the North West power network has called on the energy regulator, Ofgem, to continue investing in local networks to help meet national clean energy targets.

Electricity North West CEO, Ian Smyth, said: “Last week’s National Infrastructure Commission report highlights the need for further and faster investment if we are going to hit the ambitious clean power goals set by Government.

“As a regional network operator in an area with an economy growing faster than the UK as a whole, we are uniquely placed to deliver. We’re ready to go but it’s not going to happen without investment.

“Rather than sit on our hands until the next price control in 2028, we’ve proactively set out the additional £200m investment needed in our critical infrastructure now.

“We know it’s needed to support growth, we know it’s backed by our regional stakeholders and we know that it will ultimately enable residents, businesses and communities to make low carbon choices, ensuing a just transition in the most efficient way.”

Electricity North West hopes to have Ofgem’s approval on its submission in September.