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UK Act of Parliament
1989
United Kingdom
Electricity Act 1989
At a glance
Enforced by
What's here
122 compliance obligations, 13 practical guides · 2 journeys · 26 statutory instruments
Penalty landscape
9 of 122 obligations carry an unlimited fine. 10 carry different penalties and 103 have no criminal penalty — flagged in the list below.
Who this Act binds
Business-side actors with duties under this Act, ranked by how often they appear.
- Any Person 50
- Distributor 17
- Licence Holder 11
- Trader 3
- Director or Officer 1
- Applicant 1
Plus 39 non-business duties on Crown ministers, regulators, local authorities or tribunals — shown collapsed under each section below.
Step-by-step journeys using this legislation
Walkthroughs that take you from a real business situation to compliance.
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Relevant guidance
Practical guides for businesses affected by this Act, ordered by how closely they engage with it.
Direct — cites this Act
3 guidesSupporting — topic alignment
9 guidesMentioned in related content
1 guidesOther Acts binding the same actors
For each actor bound by this Act, the other UK Acts that bind them most often. Useful for understanding the full compliance landscape facing each role.
Any Person also bound by 2338 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Human Medicines Regulations 2012 2012 169 duties
- Merchant Shipping Act 1995 1995 144 duties
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 101 duties
- Road Traffic Act 1988 1988 95 duties
- Air Navigation Order 2016 2016 95 duties
Distributors also bound by 177 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- The Marketing of Fruit Plant and Propagating Material (England) Regulations 2017 2017 28 duties
- The Marketing of Fruit Plant and Propagating Material (Wales) Regulations 2017 2017 26 duties
- The Marketing of Fruit Plant and Propagating Material Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 2017 25 duties
- Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002 2002 21 duties
- THE ELECTRICITY SAFETY, QUALITY AND CONTINUITY REGULATIONS (NORTHERN IRELAND) 2012 2012 19 duties
Licence Holders also bound by 221 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Petroleum (Current Model Clauses) Order 1999 1999 317 duties
- The Petroleum Licensing (Exploration and Production) (Seaward and Landward Areas) Regulations 2004 2004 123 duties
- Human Medicines Regulations 2012 2012 76 duties
- Space Industry Regulations 2021 2021 68 duties
- The Petroleum (Production) (Landward Areas) Regulations 1991 1991 65 duties
Traders also bound by 826 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Value Added Tax Regulations 1995 1995 413 duties
- Companies Act 2006 2006 243 duties
- The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 2008 114 duties
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 62 duties
- Building Societies Act 1986 1986 56 duties
Directors and Officers also bound by 425 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 161 duties
- Companies Act 2006 2006 108 duties
- Insolvency Act 1986 1986 72 duties
- The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 2008 55 duties
- The Housing Administration (England and Wales) Rules 2018 2018 26 duties
Applicants also bound by 294 other Acts (top 5 shown)
- Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 2016 46 duties
- Human Medicines Regulations 2012 2012 30 duties
- The Land Registration Rules 2003 2003 25 duties
- Value Added Tax Regulations 1995 1995 18 duties
- Space Industry Regulations 2021 2021 14 duties
What this Act requires
Sections that create concrete duties on businesses or carry penalties. Procedural and definitional sections are folded into the “Browse other sections” expander at the bottom of each group. Click any section title to read the source text on legislation.gov.uk.
Part I — ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
Guidance on social and environmental matters.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must issue guidance on social and environmental matters Crown / Minister / Government department
Binding decisions of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators and of the European Commission
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must comply with binding EU energy decisions Statutory regulator
Authority to consult and cooperate with other authorities
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must coordinate with other authorities on electricity market regulation Statutory regulator
Prohibition on unlicensed supply etc.
Unlimited fine- Carry out electricity activities without a license Any Person
Duties of distribution exemption holders
- Comply with duties for distribution exemption holders Any Person
Duties of supply exemption holders
- Comply with duties for exempt electricity suppliers Any Person
Applications for transmission licences.
- Notify existing licence holders of your transmission licence application Applicant
Recovery of tender costs
- Pay required tender costs and provide security or deposits Any Person
Conditions of licences: general.
- Comply with electricity licence conditions and regulatory directions Licence Holder
Transfer of licences.
- Obtain Ofgem consent before transferring an electricity licence Licence Holder
Conditions for funding certain companies engaged in nuclear generation in Scotland.
- Fund subsidiary nuclear generation companies in Scotland Licence Holder
General duties of licence holders.
- Maintain an efficient distribution and transmission system and foster competition Distributor
Electricity transmission and the operation of electricity interconnectors: requirement for certain participants to be certified as independent
- Obtain independence certification for electricity transmission or interconnection Any Person
Report where applicant connected with a country outside the United Kingdom
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must report on energy security for foreign applicants Crown / Minister / Government department
Certification
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must decide on certification applications within statutory deadlines Statutory regulator
Designation for the purposes of the Electricity Regulation
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must notify you of your designation as a system operator Statutory regulator
Review of certification: requirement to provide information etc
- Provide information to Ofgem during a certification review Any Person
Report as to any connection of certified person with a country outside the United Kingdom
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must report on security risks of foreign connections Crown / Minister / Government department
Prohibition on the exercise of certain shareholder rights and rights of appointment
- Do not exercise restricted shareholder or appointment rights Any Person
Determination by CMA of appeal
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CMA must determine electricity licence modification appeals Tribunal / Court
CMA's powers on allowing appeal
Unlimited fineOther duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CMA must issue specific orders when allowing an electricity license appeal Tribunal / Court
Determination of appeal by CMA : supplementary
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CMA must issue, explain, and publish appeal decisions Statutory regulator
Duty to connect on request.
- Electricity distributors must connect premises on request Distributor
Procedural requirements.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must follow specific procedures before issuing enforcement orders Statutory regulator
Consumer redress orders
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem may issue consumer redress orders for rule breaches Statutory regulator
Remedial action under a consumer redress order
- Comply with consumer redress orders and remedial actions Any Person
Other procedural requirements in relation to consumer redress orders
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must follow specific procedures before issuing a redress order Statutory regulator
Power to require information etc.
Unlimited fine- Fail to provide information or tampering with records for energy regulators Any Person
Regulations relating to supply and safety.
Unlimited fine- Contravene electricity supply and safety regulations Any Person
Renewables obligation orders: procedure
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ministers must consult industry before making Renewables Obligation orders Crown / Minister / Government department
Renewables obligation closure orders: procedure
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must consult and gain Parliament approval for closure orders Crown / Minister / Government department
Use of levy payments
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State may direct levy funds to be paid into the Consolidated Fund Crown / Minister / Government department
Certificate purchase orders: corresponding provision
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must align certificate purchase orders across regions Crown / Minister / Government department
Consent required for construction etc. of generating stations.
- Obtain consent before building or operating a power station Any Person
Duties in relation to navigation
Unlimited fineOther duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Authorities must assess impact on sea lanes before approving offshore energy Statutory regulator
Consent required for overhead lines.
Fine up to £1,000- Obtain consent before installing or keeping overhead electric lines Any Person
Electricity supply: performance in individual cases.
- Compensate customers if electricity supply standards are not met Distributor
Standards of performance in individual cases: electricity distributors.
- Pay compensation for failing to meet electricity service standards Distributor
Electricity supply: overall performance.
- Conduct business to achieve set electricity performance standards Distributor
Overall standards of performance: electricity distributors.
- Achieve overall standards of performance for electricity distribution Distributor
Procedures for prescribing or determining standards of performance.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must consult and notify before setting service standards Statutory regulator
Information with respect to levels of performance.
- Provide electricity performance and compensation data to the regulator Distributor
Publication of statistical information about standards of performance.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Citizens Advice must publish performance and complaint stats for energy firms Statutory regulator
Remuneration and service standards.
- Disclose director pay linked to service standards Trader
Functions with respect to competition.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must coordinate with competition authorities and act promptly Statutory regulator
General functions.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must monitor and collect data on electricity market activities Statutory regulator
Power to require information etc for the purpose of monitoring
Unlimited fine- Intentionally alter, suppress or destroy documents required by Ofgem Any Person
- Tamper with or destroy documents required for regulatory monitoring Any Person
Reports on references.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CMA must report on whether specific activities should be licensed Statutory regulator
Application by Authority for order excluding activities.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must consult before removing an activity from licensing requirements Statutory regulator
Consultation by Secretary of State about order excluding activities.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must consult before removing licensable activities Crown / Minister / Government department
Service by Authority of certain notices on Citizens Advice and Consumer Scotland.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must provide copies of notices to consumer advocacy bodies Statutory regulator
Making of false statements etc.
Unlimited fine- Make false statements or impersonate electricity personnel Any Person
- Provide false information or impersonate electricity officials Any Person
Browse 170 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
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General duties of Secretary of State and Director.
The principal objective and general duties of the Secretary of State and the Authority.
Health and safety.
Exceptions from sections 3A to 3C.
Exemptions from prohibition.
Licences authorising supply, etc.
Procedure for licence applications.
Meaning of “relevant electricity project”, “relevant licence” and “relevant contract”
Designation of a delivery body
Competitive tenders
Power to require information
Competitive tenders: supplementary
Sections 6C to 6CC: further definitions
Section 6C: supplemental provision
Property schemes in respect of relevant licences and contracts
... Transmission during commissioning period
Section 6F: meaning of “commissioning period”
Sections 6C, 6F and 6G: modification of codes or agreements
Uniform prices etc. in certain areas of Scotland.
Standard conditions of licences.
Powers etc. of licence holders.
Application for certification
Grounds for certification
The ownership unbundling requirement
The ownership unbundling requirement: supplementary
Monitoring and review of certification
Continuation or withdrawal of certification
Validity of acts infringing section 10M
Interpretation
Long duration electricity storage
Modification by agreement.
Modification of conditions of licences
Modification of conditions under section 11A: early effective date
Modification of conditions under section 11A: supplementary
Appeal to the CMA
Procedure on appeal to CMA
Time limits for CMA to determine an appeal
Modification references to Monopolies Commission.
References under section 12: time limits
References under section 12: powers of investigation
Reports on modification references.
Modification following report.
Competition Commission’s power to veto modifications following report.
Modification by order under other enactments.
Licence modifications relating to new electricity trading arrangements.
Procedure for requiring a connection.
Exceptions from duty to connect.
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Power to recover expenditure.
Power to require security.
Additional terms of connection.
Special agreements with respect to connection.
Determination of disputes.
The public electricity supply code.
Orders for securing compliance.
Validity and effect of orders.
Penalties.
Statement of policy with respect to penalties.
Time limits on the imposition of financial penalties.
Interest and payment of instalments.
Appeals against penalties.
Recovery of penalties.
Statement of policy with respect to consumer redress orders
Time limits for making consumer redress orders
Enforcement of consumer redress orders
Appeals against consumer redress orders
Consumer redress orders: miscellaneous
Maximum amount of penalty or compensation
Electrical inspectors.
Use etc. of meters.
The renewables obligation
Further provision about the renewables obligation
Renewables obligation certificates
Section 32B: supplemental provision
Amounts of electricity specified in certificates
Section 32D: transitional provision and savings
Use of renewables obligation certificates issued in Northern Ireland
Payment as alternative to complying with renewables obligation order
Allocation of amounts to electricity suppliers
Costs of the Authority and the Northern Ireland authority
Information
Renewables obligation order: general provision
Renewables obligation closure order
Onshore wind generating stations: closure of renewables obligation
Onshore wind generating stations accredited, or additional capacity added, on or before the onshore wind closure date
Onshore wind generating stations accredited, or additional capacity added, in the year after the onshore wind closure date: grid or radar delay condition met
Onshore wind generating stations accredited, or additional capacity added, on or before 31 March 2017: approved development condition met
Onshore wind generating stations accredited, or additional capacity added, between 1 April 2017 and 31 March 2018: grid or radar delay condition met
Onshore wind generating stations accredited, or additional capacity added, between 1 April 2017 and 31 January 2018: investment freezing condition met
Onshore wind generating stations accredited, or additional capacity added, between 1 February 2018 and 31 January 2019: grid or radar delay condition met
The approved development condition
The investment freezing condition
The grid or radar delay condition
Use of Northern Ireland certificates: onshore wind power
Interpretation of sections 32 to 32M
The certificate purchase obligation
Further provision about the certificate purchase obligation
Certificate purchase levy
Designation of a CFD counterparty as purchasing body or administrator
GB certificates
NI certificates
Sections 32S and 32T: supplemental provision
Certificate purchase orders: amounts of electricity stated in certificates
Section 32V: transitional provision and savings
Certificate purchase orders: information
Certificate purchase orders: general provision
Certificate purchase orders: procedure
Interpretation of sections 32N to 32Z2
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Fuel stocks etc. at generating stations.
Provisions supplementary to section 34.
Declarations extinguishing etc. public rights of navigation
Variation of consents under section 36
Proceedings for questioning certain decisions under section 36
Applications under section 36D: requirement for permission
Application for variation of section 37 consent: Scotland
Variation of section 36 and 37 consents on change of circumstances: Scotland
Correction of errors in consent documents: Scotland
Preservation of amenity and fisheries.
Power to establish scheme for giving of benefits
Passing of benefits to ultimate consumer
Enforcement of benefit scheme
Disclosure and use of information in connection with benefit scheme
Standards of performance in individual cases: disputes.
Promotion of reductions in carbon emissions: ... electricity distributors and electricity suppliers
Scottish Ministers' promotion of reductions in carbon emissions: electricity suppliers
Promotion of reductions in home-heating costs: electricity distributors and electricity suppliers
Scottish Ministers' promotion of reductions in home-heating costs: electricity suppliers
Information to be given to customers about overall performance.
Information relating to complaints handling standards
Procedures for dealing with complaints.
Adjustment of charges to help disadvantaged groups of customers.
Orders: supplementary.
Maximum prices for reselling electricity.
Meaning of “ section 44B dispute”
Determination of disputes
Time limit for determinations
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Consumer complaints.
Power of Council to investigate other matters.
Annual report by Authority on security of electricity supply
Publication of information and advice.
Keeping of register.
Reasons for decisions.
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Continuity of employment of officers of abolished Councils.
Power to alter activities requiring licence.
Application by Authority for order including new activities.
References to CMA.
References under section 56C: time limits
References under section 56C: application of Enterprise Act 2002
New licensable activities: smart meters
Section 56FA: supplemental
New licensable activities: load control of energy smart appliances
Regulations under section 56FBA
Competitive tenders for licences for new licensable activities
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Directions restricting the use of certain information.
Powers to make regulations.
Concurrent proceedings.
Public inquiries.
Application to Crown land.
Interpretation etc. of Part I.
Part II — REORGANISATION OF THE INDUSTRY
Functions of Secretary of State in relation to transfer schemes.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must approve or create electricity transfer schemes Crown / Minister / Government department
Government lending to the companies.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must manage and report on loans to Crown-owned companies Crown / Minister / Government department
Treasury guarentees for loans made to the companies.
- Crown-owned successor companies must repay Treasury-guaranteed loans Trader
Browse 28 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Transfer of property etc. of Area Boards.
Transfer of property etc. of Generating Board and Electricity Council.
Transfer of property etc. of Scottish Boards.
Transfer schemes under sections 66 and 67.
Supplementary provisions as to transfers under sections 66 and 67.
Initial Government holding in the companies.
Government investment in securities of the companies.
Exercise of functions through nominees.
Target investment limit for Government shareholding.
Statutory reserves.
Statutory accounts.
Temporary restrictions on borrowings etc.
Conversion of certain loans etc. to the Scottish companies.
Financial limits on borrowing etc.
Responsibility for composite listing particulars.
Application of Trustee Investments Act 1961 in relation to investment in operating companies.
Dissolution etc. of existing bodies.
Compensation to members and employees of existing bodies.
Discharge of certain advances and loans made to existing bodies.
Expenditure and receipts of Electricity Council.
Grants towards expenditure during transitional period.
Payments for the use of tax losses.
Taxation provisions.
Electricity Stock.
Abolition of central guarantee fund.
Parliamentary disqualification.
Construction of references to property, rights and liabilities.
Other interpretation of Part II.
Part III — MISCELLANEOUS AND SUPPLEMENTAL
Provision of statistical information.
2 years imprisonment- Fail to provide electricity industry statistics or provide false data Any Person
- Provide false information or unlawfully disclose confidential statistical data Any Person
Competition and restrictive trade practices.
Amended 7 timesStamp duty exemption for certain contracts.
- Treat electricity as goods for stamp duty purposes Any Person
Regulations and orders.
Amended 18 timesDirections.
- Comply with formal directions given under the Electricity Act Any Person
Offences by bodies corporate.
Unlimited fine- Company liable for offences committed with directors' consent or neglect Any Person
Service of documents.
Amended 1 timeGeneral interpretation.
Amended 6 timesShort title, commencement and extent.
Amended 2 timesBrowse 10 other sections in this Part — procedural / definitional / commencement
Directions for preserving security of electricity supplies etc.
Financial assistance for discharge of nuclear liabilities.
Promotion of new techniques in national interest.
Rights of entry.
Production and supply of heat or electricity etc. by Scottish local authorities.
Amendment etc. of Electricity Supply Pension Scheme.
Amendment etc. of Scottish Pension Schemes.
Extraterritorial operation of Act
Financial provisions.
Amendments, transitional provisions, savings and repeals.
Schedules
Transfers under Sections 66 and 67
- Formally agree and record the division of property and staff after a transfer Any Person
Nuclear Liabilities: Financial Assistance
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State may provide financial assistance for nuclear liabilities Crown / Minister / Government department
(1) Where the Authority is required to make a property...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Ofgem must set fair property scheme terms (including compensation) for energy asset transfers Statutory regulator
Duties of distribution exemption holders
- Manage third-party electricity supplier access requests Any Person
(1) A distribution exemption holder may apply to the Authority...
- Apply to Ofgem to classify your exempt distribution system as a closed distribution system Any Person
(1) Sub-paragraphs (2) and (3) apply if a customer has...
- Submit charging methodology to Ofgem for approval when requested by customer or third party supplier Any Person
(1) If, after a system has been classified as a...
- Notify Ofgem of changes affecting closed distribution system classification Any Person
(1) This paragraph and paragraph 3 apply where a customer...
- Grant third-party supplier access to your distribution system when a customer switches Any Person
(1) The third party supplier mentioned in paragraph 2(1) may...
- Third-party electricity suppliers must follow access application process Distributor
(1) This paragraph applies where a distribution exemption holder is...
- Provide non-discriminatory access to your distribution system for third party suppliers Any Person
(1) Subject to paragraph 13(1), a distribution exemption holder on...
- Obtain Ofgem approval for use of system charge methodology Any Person
(1) This paragraph applies where a distribution exemption holder is...
- Provide and maintain electrical connections when required by a supplier or customer Any Person
(1) This paragraph applies where a distribution exemption holder has...
- Respond to connection requests and negotiate terms Any Person
Duties of supply exemption holders
- Switch electricity customers and provide written contracts Any Person
(1) This paragraph applies if— (a) a person (“the new...
- Cooperate with new supplier when a customer switches electricity supplier Any Person
(1) A supply exemption holder must not require a household...
- Do not charge customers for switching supplier and send final bill within 6 weeks Any Person
(1) Where a supply exemption holder enters into a contract...
- Meet contract and customer protection rules for household electricity supply Trader
(1) No later than 12 months after entering into a...
- Send customers annual electricity consumption and cost information Any Person
(1) A supply exemption holder must, so far as is...
- Include energy source information on each customer bill Any Person
For paragraph 4 of that Schedule (protection for owner against...
- Grant right over part of property if Lands Tribunal orders it Any Person
Where a licence holder has acquired any land by virtue...
- Do not dispose of acquired land without Ofgem consent Licence Holder
(1) Subject to the following provisions of this paragraph, for...
- Minimise damage and ensure public safety when carrying out street works Licence Holder
(1) Subject to the following provisions of this paragraph and...
- Follow rules when entering land to survey for electricity licence activities Licence Holder
(1) Any person who intentionally obstructs a person acting in...
Fine up to £1,000- Obstruct an electricity inspector or licence holder Any Person
(1) Subject to the following provisions of this paragraph, for...
- Do as little damage as possible when carrying out electricity works and pay compensation Licence Holder
(1) A licence holder may execute works in pursuance of...
Fine up to £1,000- Fail to give notice or comply with undertaker's requirements Any Person
(1) This paragraph applies where at any time such a...
- Remove electric line when wayleave ends and notice received Licence Holder
Water Rights for Hydro-Electric Generating Stations in Scotland
- Apply for water abstraction and diversion rights for hydro-electric projects Any Person
In Scotland, a person who holds a licence under section...
- Minimise damage and pay compensation when using water rights for hydro generation Any Person
Authorisation under paragraph 1 above shall be by order and...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State may authorise compulsory water rights via order Crown / Minister / Government department
(1) An application for permission to bring an appeal may...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- CMA must decide your appeal permission within 10 or 14 working days Tribunal / Court
(1) If a person (“the defaulter”)— (a) fails to comply...
Unlimited fine- Fail to comply with CMA information notice or provide false information Any Person
(1) A group that determines an appeal must make an...
- Pay CMA costs within 28 days if ordered Any Person
The electricity code
- Do not charge disabled customers for meter adaptations Distributor
(1) Where an electricity supplier, for the purpose of meeting...
- Do not charge disabled customers for meter repositioning or adapted replacement Distributor
(1) The Rights of Entry (Gas and Electricity Boards) Act...
Fine up to £1,000- Obstruct authorised person exercising right of entry Any Person
(1) Where an electricity supplier supplies electricity to any premises...
- Create and publish a scheme for deemed electricity supply contracts Distributor
(1) Where any person takes a supply of electricity which...
- Electricity distributors must publish a scheme for valuing unauthorised electricity Distributor
(1) Where, otherwise than in the exercise of a power...
- Do not reconnect a disconnected electricity supply without permission Any Person
(1) A person who intentionally or by culpable negligence damages...
Fine up to £1,000- Damage electricity distributor's lines or supplier's meters Any Person
(1) Any officer or other person authorised by an electricity...
- Allow electricity distributor or supplier access to your premises for meter and line work Distributor
Article 50(6) of the Electricity Regulation (duty to keep specified...
- Keep specified information available for Ofgem if you hold a generation licence Any Person
Use etc. of Electricity Meters
Fine up to £2,500- Use approved and certified meters for electricity supply Distributor
(1) Where a customer of an authorised supplier is to...
- Supply electricity through an appropriate meter and manage its installation Distributor
(1) A customer of an authorised supplier shall at all...
- Keep electricity meters you provide in proper working order Distributor
(1) If any person intentionally or by culpable negligence—
Fine up to £1,000- Tamper with electricity meter or prevent registration Any Person
(1) A customer of an authorised supplier who takes his...
- Only use pre-payment meters to recover specific permitted debts Distributor
(1) If an authorised supplier supplies electricity through a meter...
Fine up to £1,000- Supply electricity through an unapproved meter Any Person
(1) It shall be the duty of a person to...
- Provide and maintain meter testing and sealing apparatus as directed Director or Officer
(1) It shall be the duty of a meter examiner...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Meter examiners must test disputed electricity meters on request Crown / Minister / Government department
(1) This paragraph applies where there is a genuine dispute...
Fine up to £500- Remove or alter a disputed electricity meter without approval Any Person
(1) The Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers may...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State or Scottish Ministers may regulate electricity consent applications Crown / Minister / Government department
(1) A reporter appointed under paragraph 2(2A)(a) must make proposals...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Reporter must propose, decide and report on procedure for examining applications Crown / Minister / Government department
(1) A licence holder shall within twelve months from the...
- Prepare and publish a statement on how you'll perform environmental duties Licence Holder
(1) In formulating any relevant proposals, a licence holder or...
- Consider and mitigate environmental impact of electricity proposals Licence Holder
(1) A licence holder shall within twelve months from the...
- Prepare, consult on, and publish your environmental duties statement Licence Holder
(1) This paragraph applies where any apportionment or other matter...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Commissioners must determine tax apportionment disputes for electricity successor companies Tribunal / Court
(1) ... , the Secretary of State may, with the...
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Secretary of State must prepare and send annual loan accounts to Comptroller and Auditor General Crown / Minister / Government department
Production and Supply of Heat or Electricity etc. by Scottish Local Authorities
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Scottish Local Authorities must report on heat production and supply Local authority
Production and supply of heat and electricity etc. by local authorities.
Other duties (1) — Crown / regulator
- Local authority must report heat installation details to Secretary of State annually Local authority
Browse 298 other Schedules — structural / supplementary
Preliminary
Compulsory Acquisition of Land etc. by Licence Holders
Consents of the Secretary of State and the Scottish Ministers under Sections 36 and 37
PRESERVATION OF AMENITY AND FISHERIES.
TAXATION PROVISIONS
The Electricity Supply Pension Scheme
Minor and Consequential Amendments
Repeals
Remuneration, pensions etc.
Schedule 1 para.1
Schedule 1 para.2
Schedule 1 para.3
Schedule 1 para.4
Schedule 1 para.5
Schedule 1 para.6
Schedule 1 para.7
Schedule 1 para.8
Schedule 2 para.1
Schedule 2 para.10
Schedule 2 para.2
Schedule 2 para.3
Schedule 2 para.4
Schedule 2 para.5
Schedule 2 para.6
Schedule 2 para.7
Schedule 2 para.8
Schedule 2 para.9
Property Schemes
(1) This paragraph applies where a tender exercise is held...
As soon as reasonably practicable after the Authority receives a...
(1) Where an application for a property scheme has been...
(1) On an application for the making of a property...
On an application for a property scheme, no scheme may...
(1) A determination under paragraph 14, so far as relating...
(1) The Authority may, by notice, require any of the...
The Authority may engage consultants for the purpose of advising...
(1) This paragraph applies where the Authority makes a property...
(1) This paragraph applies where the Authority—
(1) A property scheme may also contain—
A property scheme, by virtue of this paragraph, has effect...
(1) A transaction of any description effected by or under...
Where— (a) an amount of compensation is owed to a...
(1) Any person affected by a determination of the Authority...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) the Competition Appeal Tribunal...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) the Competition Appeal Tribunal...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) the Competition Appeal Tribunal...
(1) An order under paragraph 23(4)(b) may include provision for...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) a person makes an...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) a person makes an...
(1) An application for a property scheme may be made...
In exercising its powers under paragraph 28 or 29, the...
Paragraphs 28 or 29 are without prejudice to any powers...
(1) If an order under paragraph 28 or 29 is...
(1) An appeal lies on any point of law arising...
(1) Where any property, rights or liabilities specified in an...
(1) The preferred bidder, in relation to a tender exercise,...
(1) The successful bidder, in relation to a tender exercise,...
(1) Before directing the holder of a transmission licence to...
(1) Before directing the holder of a distribution licence to...
(1) For the purposes of this Schedule, one body corporate...
(1) In this Schedule— “the asset owner”— in relation to...
An application for a property scheme, in relation to a...
(1) No application may be made for a property scheme...
(1) On receipt of an application for a property scheme,...
(1) As soon as reasonably practicable after receiving the information...
As soon as reasonably practicable after an application is made...
(1) The non-applicant party may, by notice served on the...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) a customer owns or...
(1) The distribution exemption holder may enter into an agreement...
(1) Section 23 (determination of disputes) applies in relation to...
(1) Paragraph 5(1) to (8) does not apply in relation...
(1) In this Schedule— “charging statement” (in relation to a...
(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where a distribution exemption holder is...
(1) Where a distribution exemption holder makes a connection under...
(1) This paragraph applies if a supply exemption holder enters...
(1) A supply exemption holder must— (a) with each bill...
(1) Sections 44C and 44D apply in relation to an...
In this Schedule— “customer” means a person who purchases electricity...
(1) Subject to paragraph 2 below, the Secretary of State...
The following provisions of that Act (being provisions stating the...
Section 11 of that Act (powers of entry) shall be...
Section 20 of that Act (protection for interests of tenants...
Section 22 of that Act (protection of acquiring authority’s possession...
The enactments in force in England and Wales with respect...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2) below, the Acquisition of Land...
The Acquisition of Land (Authorisation Procedure) (Scotland) Act 1947, and...
Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph 16 above, Part...
In paragraph 9 of that Schedule (compulsory purchase affecting land...
In paragraph 10 of that Schedule (land of statutory undertakers)—...
(1) No order shall be made under paragraph 1 above...
In paragraph 11 of that Schedule (common or open space),...
Compulsory Acquisition of Land by Licence Holders
Paragraph 3(1) of the Second Schedule to the Acquisition of...
Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph 16 above, the...
For section 61 of that Act (estimation of compensation) there...
The following provisions of that Act (being provisions stating the...
Sections 114 (compensation to be made to tenants for a...
Sections 117 (protection of promoter of undertaking where by inadvertence...
The enactments in force in Scotland with respect to compensation...
(1) This paragraph applies to land which—
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2) below, the Acquisition of Land...
The Compulsory Purchase Act 1965 shall have effect with the...
Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph 6 above, Part...
For section 7 of that Act (measure of compensation) there...
Section 8(1) of the Compulsory Purchase Act 1965 has effect...
Other Powers etc. of Licence Holders
In this Schedule— “moveables” means chattels in relation to England...
(1) Any of the following who is authorised by or...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2) below, a licence holder who...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) for any purpose connected...
The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make provision about the...
(1) Where a wayleave is granted to a licence holder...
(1) This paragraph applies where any tree is or will...
The applicant shall, at the request of any person interested,...
The Secretary of State may make an order in the...
If before the expiration of the 28 days referred to...
The expenses incurred by the Secretary of State in connection...
Water Rights for Hydro-Electric Generating Stations in Scotland
In paragraphs 1 to 8 above “watercourse” includes all rivers,...
Where the abstraction, diversion, and use will, in the opinion...
In this Schedule “compensation water” means a flow of water,...
Subject to paragraphs 5A and 5B, In deciding whether to...
Before making an order under paragraph 2, and in considering...
In the event that the provisions of an order made...
Any question of disputed compensation under paragraph 1 above shall...
An applicant for authorisation under paragraph 1 above shall submit...
Not later than the date on which the said notice...
The applicant shall also publish in the Edinburgh Gazette a...
Procedure for appeals under section 11C
(1) The CMA Board may make rules of procedure regulating...
(1) In this Schedule— “appeal” means an appeal under section...
(1) The CMA may direct that, pending the determination of...
(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies where the Authority wishes to make...
(1) The following functions of the Commission must be carried...
(1) The CMA , if it thinks it necessary to...
(1) For the purposes of this Schedule, the CMA may,...
(1) For the purposes of this Schedule an oral hearing...
(1) The CMA may, by notice, require a person to...
Where permission to bring an appeal is granted under paragraph...
Reimbursement of persons who have met expenses
(1) The Secretary of State may, by regulations, make provision...
(1) The “reimbursement powers” are— (a) the power to demand...
(1) The Secretary of State must consult the Authority before...
(1) In this Schedule— “ first connection ” has the...
(1) This paragraph applies to any electric line, electrical plant...
(1) Where a customer has not, within the requisite period,...
(1) Where an electricity supplier or an electricity distributor is...
(1) Any officer or other person authorised by an electricity...
Provisions imposing obligations enforceable as relevant requirements
The following are relevant provisions in relation to all licence...
In this Schedule— “the Electricity Balancing Regulation” means Commission Regulation...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to all holders...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to a person...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to the holder...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to the holder...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to the holder...
The following paragraphs of Schedule 2ZA are relevant provisions in...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to a supply...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to an electricity...
The following are relevant provisions in relation to the holder...
(1) Section 194 (3) of the Energy Act 2023 is...
In this Schedule— “agreed margins of error” has the meaning...
(1) No meter shall be used for ascertaining the quantity...
(1) The Director shall appoint competent and impartial persons as...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2) below, a meter may be...
(1) This paragraph applies to meters used for ascertaining the...
(1) An application for a consent under section 36 or...
(1) Where an application is made to the appropriate authority...
(1) The appropriate authority may by regulations make provision for...
(1) Where in accordance with paragraph 2(2) or 3(2) above...
(1) Where in accordance with paragraph 2(2) , 2A or...
(1) This paragraph applies in the case of—
Proceedings for questioning certain decisions under paragraph 3(2)
Applications under paragraph 5B: requirement for permission
(1) Where an application for consent under section 37 of...
Consents under Sections 36 and 37
(1) This paragraph applies to every case where an application...
(1) The Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers may...
(1) In this Schedule— “ appropriate authority ” means— in...
(1) In formulating any relevant proposals, a licence holder or...
(1) The provisions of this paragraph shall apply where the...
Any reference in this Schedule to a transfer effected in...
(1) The provisions of this paragraph shall apply where the...
(1) The provisions of this paragraph shall apply where—
(1) The provisions of this paragraph shall apply where the...
(1) The provisions of this paragraph shall apply where the...
(1) Where two or more transfers are effected in pursuance...
(1) Where two or more transfers are effected in pursuance...
(1) A transaction of any description which, in pursuance of...
(1) If in consequence of two or more transfers effected...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraphs (2) and (3) below, the following...
The vesting in a successor company by this Act of...
(1) No transfer effected by this Act shall give rise...
(1) No agreement made for the purposes of or for...
(1) In this Schedule— “the 1988 Act” means the Income...
(1) This paragraph applies where— (a) by virtue of a...
In this Schedule “ the 1992 Act ” means the...
(1) Where— (a) a held over gain would, but for...
(1) Any unallowed capital losses of an existing body shall...
(1) Sub-paragraph (2) below applies to any disposal (within the...
Where any property, rights and liabilities to which a transfer...
(1) Any share issued by a successor company in pursuance...
(1) Section 400(1) of the 1988 Act (write-off of government...
(1) ... , the Secretary of State may, with the...
(1) ..., the Secretary of State with the approval of...
The Secretary of State shall not— (a) make any grant...
Nuclear Liabilities: Financial Assistance
In this Schedule “qualifying expenditure” has the meaning given by...
(1) The Secretary of State may make regulations amending the...
(1) The Secretary of State may make regulations for the...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (3) below, this sub-paragraph applies to—...
(1) Chapter I of Part XIV of the Employment Rights...
(1) In this Schedule— “Consultative Council” means a Consultative Council...
The Scottish Pension Schemes
(1) The Secretary of State may make regulations amending the...
(1) The Secretary of State may make regulations for the...
(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (3) below, this sub-paragraph applies to—...
(1) Chapter I of Part XIV of the Employment Rights...
(1) In this Schedule— “Consultative Council” means a Consultative Council...
(1) The holder of a licence under section 6(1) of...
In section 19(4)(f) of, and in paragraph 4(h) of Schedule...
For subsection (4) of section 3 of the Nuclear Installations...
In section 5(1) of the Building Control Act 1966, after...
(1) Section 9 of the Forestry Act 1967 (licences for...
In section 109(2) of the Transport Act 1968, for paragraphs...
Minor and Consequential Amendments
Minor and Consequential Amendments
(1) The Consumer Credit Act 1974 shall be amended as...
(1) Section 21 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974...
In section 41(1)(a) of the Restrictive Trade Practices Act 1976...
(1) A licence holder who is entitled to exercise any...
(1) Section 11 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act...
In section 112(2)(a) of the Land Drainage Act 1976 (protection...
In section 14 of the Energy Act 1976 (fuelling for...
In section 28(1) of the Land Registration (Scotland) Act 1979...
Minor and Consequential Amendments
Minor and Consequential Amendments
(1) The Water (Scotland) Act 1980 shall be amended as...
Minor and Consequential Amendments
In section 28 of the Acquisition of Land Act 1981...
(1) The Telecommunications Act 1984 shall be amended as follows....
(1) In the following enactments, namely— (a) the Water Act...
In section 61(4) of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 (permission...
In section 80(3) of the Building Act 1984 (notice to...
In section 70(4)(b) of the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 1985 (supplies...
In section 74 of the Airports Act 1986 (restrictions on...
In section 42 of the Gas Act 1986 (general restrictions...
Minor and Consequential Amendments
Minor and Consequential Amendments
In section 160 of the Water Act 1989 (protection of...
In this Schedule expressions which are used in Part I...
Minor and Consequential Amendments
In Schedule 3 to the Water Act 1945 (incorporated provisions:...
Minor and Consequential Amendments
Minor and Consequential Amendments
(1) The Rights of Entry (Gas and Electricity Boards) Act...
In section 14(2)(b) of the Land Powers (Defence) Act 1958...
Transitional Provisions and Savings
(1) In so far as any requisition made under section...
Any order made under subsection (3) of section 34 of...
(1) Any meter of a pattern which is approved for...
Any regulations made under section 34(2) of the Electricity Act...
Where— (a) any sum was deposited with an Electricity Board...
(1) Where immediately before the day appointed for the coming...
The repeal by this Act of any provision by virtue...
In this Part of this Schedule “the Electricity Acts” means—...
Any licence granted under section 6 of this Act to...
Any tariff fixed, or having effect as if fixed, under...
Any consent given under section 36 of this Act to...
Any tariff fixed under section 37(3) of the Electricity Act...
Any consent given under section 37 of this Act to...
Any maximum price fixed, or having effect as if fixed,...
A direction given under section 96 of this Act to...
(1) Any land compulsorily acquired by an Electricity Board before...
(1) Where immediately before the transfer date there is in...
(1) Any agreement made, transaction effected or other thing done...
It is hereby declared for the avoidance of doubt that—...
The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 1981 shall...
Any agreement made under section 53 of the Electricity Act...
Transitional Provisions and Savings
Any regulations made under section 16 of the Energy Act...
Transitional Provisions and Savings
Transitional Provisions and Savings
Notwithstanding the repeal by this Act of sections 10 and...
Where by virtue of anything done before the transfer date,...
Without prejudice to the powers conferred by section 112(2) of...
(1) Nothing in this Act shall affect the validity of...
(1) Where immediately before the transfer date an Electricity Board...
(1) An application or claim by an Electricity Board for...
(1) Where an asset, or the right to receive an...
(1) Where a distribution is proposed to be declared during...
(1) Where any application made under section 2 of the...
In this Part of this Schedule expressions which are used...
(1) Where any application made under section 10(b) of the...
Any maximum charge fixed by an Electricity Board under section...
Where any representation, reference or report made under, or in...
(1) Any land which has been compulsorily acquired under section...
Any consent given under subsection (1) of section 22 of...
Official guidance
Authoritative sources published by regulators or government explaining this legislation.
- MIR approved gas and electricity meters (opens in a new tab) from OPSS Detailed Guidance
- Statement of Policy with respect to Financial Penalties and Consumer Redress | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- Statement on Deemed Contracts | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- Renewables Obligation - total obligation levels for 2012-13 | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- Guidance on deemed contract relationship pursuant to the Gas Act 1986 and the Electricity Act 1989 | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- Correction slip: Implementation date for insertion of paragraph 23.2A and schedules 3 and 4 of standard condition 23 | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- Certification arrangements in Great Britain following amendments to the ownership unbundling requirements of the Gas Act 1986 and the Electricity Act 1989 | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- Certification arrangements in Great Britain following amendments to the ownership unbundling provisions of the Gas Act 1986 and the Electricity Act 1989: End of the transition period | Ofgem (opens in a new tab) from Ofgem Detailed Guidance
- The Habitats Directive and Habitats Regulations | NatureScot (opens in a new tab) from NatureScot Detailed Guidance
- Apply for an electricity or gas licence in Northern Ireland (opens in a new tab) Detailed Guidance
- ... and 19 more
Enforcement and responsible bodies
The regulators that administer or enforce this legislation.
CMA
PrimaryCompetition and Markets Authority
Promotes competitive markets and tackles unfair behaviour. Investigates mergers, enforces competition law, and has specific digital markets powers. Digital Markets Unit (DMU) …
Office of Gas and Electricity Markets
Regulates gas and electricity markets in Great Britain. Issues licences for generation, transmission, distribution, and supply. Protects consumers and promotes competition. Also …
North Sea Transition Authority
Licenses and regulates the UK oil and gas, offshore hydrogen, and carbon storage industries. Issues petroleum production licences and CO2 storage licences. …
Manages Crown land and seabed in Scottish waters. Grants leases for offshore wind farms under ScotWind and INTOG leasing rounds. Separate from …
Connected legislation
26 statutory instruments
These instruments amend, apply, or refer to this Act. They may not all create direct business obligations.
Secondary legislation (26)
- Electricity (Class Exemptions from the Requirement for a Licence) Order 2001 2001
- The Electricity Act 1989 (Exemption from the Requirement for an Interconnector Licence) (Amendment) Order 2014 2014
- The Electricity Act 1989 (Requirement of Consent for Hydro-electric Generating Stations) (Scotland) Revocation Order 2011 2011
- The Electricity and Gas (Smart Meters Licensable Activity) Order 2012 2012
- The Electricity (Connection Charges) (Amendment) Regulations 2022 2022
- The Electricity (Connection Offer Expenses) Regulations 2018 2018
- The Electricity (Offshore Generating Stations) (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Wales) Regulations 2019 2019
- The Energy Bill Relief Scheme Regulations 2022 2022
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) (Energy Intensive Industries) Order 2017 2017
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) (Energy Intensive Industries) Order 2024 2024
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) Order 2010 2010
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) Order 2010 2010
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) Order 2011 2011
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) Order 2018 2018
- The Renewables Obligation (Amendment) Order 2021 2021
+ 11 more statutory instruments
Explore more
Browse legislation
Find other UK business legislation with related guidance.
Regulators
Learn more about the bodies that enforce this legislation.