Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Oliver Dowden (Conservative) on Monday, 9 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. It was answered by Michael Shanks (Labour) on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Drax Power: Regulation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of Ofgem’s ability to scrutinise Drax.

Answer

We work closely with Ofgem to seek continuous improvement to scrutiny processes.

Under Drax’s Low-Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference from 2027, day-to-day scrutiny of biomass sustainability will be provided by the Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC). LCCC will implement significantly bolstered assurance standards, including audits across Drax’s global supply chain, an increased audit sample size, and a raised assurance standard from ‘limited’ to ‘reasonable’. There are also significant financial penalties available should Drax’s compliance fall short.

Ofgem will continue to regulate compliance with Drax’s licence conditions, with the powers to launch investigations and issue fines for breaches.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
111732
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Regulation Drax Power
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk