European Network Code Development

This information is aimed at all types of generators, electricity suppliers, network operators and owners, including:

  • Interconnectors Owners
  • Offshore Transmission Owners
  • Distribution Network Owners and
  • Electricity Traders who are signatories to the GB electricity industry codes and may be affected by European Network Codes.

These pages give you an overview of the Third Energy Package and general information on European Network Code Development, including who does what. 

They also provide information on what National Grid is doing in Europe and where to find further information including details of National Grid's workshops on European developments.

Use the links in the left-hand menu to explore these pages.

A Joint European Standing Group (JESG) has been set up to facilitate information sharing between National Grid Electricity Transmission plc (in its role as National Electricity Transmission System Operator) and other GB Transmission System Operators (GB TSOs) who are members of the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-e) and other GB interested parties.

What is the 'Third Energy Package' and how does it affect you?

The European Third Energy Package came into law on 3 March 2011. It is a key step forward in developing a more harmonised European energy market. 

The legislation covers separate ownership of monopoly energy transmission activities and a requirement to develop and implement European Network Codes (ENCs) which will take precedence over existing arrangements in the GB codes, where differences arise. 

The ENCs could have a far reaching impact on how things are done in the GB market.

Third Energy Package legislation


Summaries of Third Energy Package legislation


Third Energy Package Q&A