Hi Ayesha, can you tell us a little about yourself and your role?
“Hello, I’m the Customer Insights Manager in the Strategy and Development team at RECCo. As part of my role, I’m leading the Code Reform Project.
I’ve been with RECCo for over a year, following 26 years at Ofgem, where I most recently worked in the Code Reform team. Transitioning from policy development to focusing on how these changes impact RECCo has been an exciting shift. It has allowed me to view the project from a fresh perspective, engaging with stakeholders and collaborating with code bodies to determine the most effective way of implementing the changes.”
Can you tell us about the Code Reform Project? What will be the biggest challenge?
“RECCo’s governance arrangements were built on early code reform proposals, including proactive code management services. I’m pleased that the Retail Energy Code (REC) and the Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC) were selected as the first codes to be appointed a code manager.
As we progress, one of our main challenges will be further developing our governance framework in parallel with Ofgem’s evolving policy guidance and the development of transitional arrangements. The decisions made by Ofgem and DESNZ so far give us confidence as we adapt and prepare to meet new obligations.”
What work has taken place so far?
“In November, Ofgem invited us to submit an expression of interest in becoming the REC Code Manager through a non-competitive tender process. This required us to provide an eligibility assessment and demonstrate why we fit the role.
We reached a significant milestone in late January by submitting our expression of interest and eligibility assessment. This marks the first step in a three-stage process that Ofgem will use to determine whether to grant us the Code Manager licence for the REC. You can read more about Ofgem’s code manager selection consultation here: Ofgem Consultation on Code Manager Selection. Depending on the outcome of the consultation, there may be updates to the eligibility assessment requirements. We are eager to ensure that new information requirements are incorporated into the licensing assessment to avoid delays.”
What are our plans for the future?
“We are keen to collaborate with Ofgem, stakeholders, and code bodies as we move towards implementation to manage uncertainties around policy development, including transitional arrangements and licence requirements.
We are also developing our submission for the licensing assessment, the second stage of the code manager selection process.Ofgem and DESNZ will consult on policy implementation issues and a complete set of code manager licence conditions. We anticipate that Ofgem will soon release its strategic direction statement, outlining the code changes expected to meet strategic objectives.
Stakeholder engagement will be crucial as we develop our delivery plan. We look forward to hearing your views on Ofgem’s implementation proposals and collaborating with you to achieve the best outcomes for the energy market.”
Get in Touch
If you would like to discuss any aspect of code reform or understand its potential impact on your organisation, please feel free to contact us. We welcome your insights and questions.
Contact Details:
Ayesha Uvais – Customer Insights Manager, RECCo
Email: recco_strategy@retailenergycode.co.uk
