The National Energy System Operator (NESO)

The National Energy System Operator (NESO)is the nationalised energy system operator for the United Kingdom. Previously owned by National Grid plc, when it was known as National Grid ESO, it is a public corporation which operates both the electricity and gas distribution systems from 1 October 2024. The buyout from National Grid was announced in September 2024, and was valued at £630m.

NESO is chaired by Paul Golby and its chief executive officer is Fintan Slye.

NESO has been set up as the Independent System Operator and Planner (ISOP) under the provisions of part 5 of the Energy Act 2023, and was previously known informally as the Future System Operator (FSO) prior to the announcement of its official name. It holds the licences for operating the electricity system and for planning the gas system.

NESO is expected to work closely with Great British Energy to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy in the United Kingdom.