Ofgem approves Belgium gas interconnector deal, consults on cost recovery

LONDON, Oct 22 — Ofgem approved on Oct 22 an agreement between Interconnector Limited and National Gas Transmission plc (National Gas) to reinforce gas import capability through the Great Britain-Belgium interconnector, and opened a consultation on how National Gas would recover the costs.

The agreement is designed to prevent a further planned reduction in import capability and maintain that option for Great Britain over the coming winters, Ofgem said. Ofgem said the expected bill impact would be around $1.59 (1.19 pounds sterling) per gas customer per year for a total of five years, recouped from gas consumers only.

"We are now seeking views on the proposed funding arrangements before taking a final decision," said Jack Presley Abbott, Director of Energy Systems Management and Security at Ofgem. Ofgem described the measure as precautionary and said approval of the agreement does not prejudge the outcome of the consultation or its final decision on the licence modification. The consultation is open until Nov 20, 2026.