The National Infrastructure Commission has today launched an inquiry into what future changes may be needed to ensure regulation of the energy, telecoms and water sectors supports investment and innovation while at the same time keeping costs down for consumers. The regulation study is expected to examine:

• Future changes that may affect the regulated sectors: the National Infrastructure Assessment identified the UK’s infrastructure needs to 2050. The study will aim to set out the key drivers of change over the coming decades
• Competition and innovation:whether the current regulatory model encourages sufficient competition and innovation to support efficient delivery of infrastructure
• Regulatory consistency:how regulators work together and collaborate on cross-cutting challenges and significant infrastructure projects
• The relationship between regulators and the Government: how Government can effectively deliver its objectives in these regulated sectors, while continuing to safeguard the independence of the regulators

Launching the inquiry, Chancellor Philip Hammond said:

“Our regulators play a key role in ensuring the framework underpinning our vital telecoms, energy and water services remains agile and innovative, delivering for consumers and giving the UK a competitive edge.

“Technological change is having a trans-formative effect across the economy and regulators must be able to respond to keep the UK at the forefront of these advances.

“That’s why I’ve asked the National Infrastructure Commission to look at how our regulators can prepare for and adapt to this change. Their findings will be key in helping ensure we rise to these challenges and remain fit for the future.” Click here to read more