Sale Of Gas Networks By National Grid

In June 2005, the National Grid plc sold four of the eight regional gas distribution networks in Britain for £5.8 billion (those covering Scotland, Wales and the north, south and west of England). The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), the industry regulator, controls the licenses for operation of these networks; and in making its recommendation on their sale, Ofgem's primary statutory responsibility was to protect the interest of consumers. This NAO report finds that Ofgem successfully fulfilled its duty in relation to the sales, and in seeking to maintain a stable regulatory framework and manage future risks. The sales should help encourage price competition and more efficient working practices, and help deliver potential savings to customers. However, the projected benefits to consumers are subject to uncertainty, given that they are forecast over a long time frame. The report makes a number of recommendations designed to highlight lessons learned in relation to: calculating customer benefits; the internal management of projects involving sales and mergers; and protecting the consumer interest in the future.