Glossary

Explanations for the jargon used in electricity policy are set out below:

Smart Grid
The concept of a 'smart grid' is relatively new and for this reason definitions vary. However, the term broadly refers to the upgrading of an electricity network so that  generation, consumption and storage are managed more flexibly, to optimise operations. The flexibility should enable alternative energy production to be incorporated.

CPRE believes that a smart grid should also reflect the value of the countryside by minimising damage to the countryside.

National Policy Statements (NPS)
Under the Planning Act 2008 the Secretary of State may prepare a National Policy Statement setting out national policy on development in the fields of energy, transport, water or waste. When adopted, the NPS will be the primary consideration in deciding applications for development consent orders relating to 'nationally significant infrastructure projects' in such fields.

National Grid
This is the international electricity and gas company that owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain.

National Grid's approach will therefore be a major influence on the future development of the network, although its activities are subject to the framework administered by Ofgem.

Ofgem
Ofgem, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, is an agency of Government that regulates the activities of National Grid and electricity distribution and supply companies such as npower and E.ON UK. Ofgem's main stated priority is to protect gas and electricity consumers.

Smart Metering
This generally refers to electricity meters that monitor electricity use in a more detailed way than conventional meters, recording, for example, time of use, power quality etc. This information can then be fed back to the electricity provider for monitoring and billing purposes.