Updated Energy NPS: Impacts On Planning, Financing And Transactions

Updates to the National Planning Policy on Energy for new energy infrastructure projects – reflecting the Government's current energy priorities - came into force on 6 January 2026. This policy provides the strategic decision-making framework for energy NSIPs covered by it and is likely to be of significant interest to stakeholders in the sector.

In 2025 we highlighted the consultation on, and finalisation of, detailed amendments to the Overarching National Policy Statement (NPS) for energy (EN-1) and the NPSs for renewable energy infrastructure (EN-3) and electricity networks infrastructure (EN-5) (see here). On 6 January 2026, the Government officially designated revised versions of EN-1, EN-3 and EN-5. These revisions align national planning policy with the Government's current priorities for decarbonisation and grid modernisation, which is likely to bring helpful clarity for developers, investors and financiers seeking development consent for energy