Economic growth and enabling access to the electricity network was the theme as North West leaders backed calls for further region-wide investment in the power network.

The calls came at an Electricity North West hosted event in Westminster with regional MPs, industry representatives, government, and Ofgem, where it shared further details of its proposed additional £200m investment plan through March 2028.

Chaired by Carlisle MP, Julie Minns, the meeting saw discussions between Electricity North West and participants about the need for continued investment in the grid.

“Electricity North West has a crucial role to play in ensuring the North West’s power network can meet the region’s energy needs,” said Minns.

“It is extremely positive to see Electricity North West planning ahead, it wants to act now, to facilitate and support economic growth.”

Electricity North West is well under way with a record five-year, £2bn investment programme, which will transform the way the power network operates.

“The decisions we make now will shape the next decade and help unlock the region’s full potential, as well as support the delivery of national ambitions,” said Electricity North West CEO, Ian Smyth.

“Signals from the Government, Ofgem and regional stakeholders are clear: investment in electricity networks cannot wait.

“We have a clear picture of what is needed, and we need to ensure we activate the supply chain to deliver the infrastructure so regional ambitions can be met.”

Its additional £200m investment submission will further support the region’s growth through critical infrastructure.

MPs heard that the increased investment would create more skilled jobs in the North West.

Ofgem will make a decision on the submission later in the year.