Evolution of Electric Utility Restructuring in the UK

This article, the first of two, addresses the evolution of electric utility restructuring in the UK from its inception in 1988 to the present. (A subsequent article provides critical evaluations of the move to competition and the role of consumer interests in the reformation of the electric and gas regulating offices.) Elements include statutory foundations, political implications, and the pool structure. The foundations of electric utility privatization and the introduction of competition are discussed, citing the political implications, innovative pool structure, the phased implementation plan, critical evaluations, consumer interests, and regulatory reform. Recent restructuring policy enacted by the European Union suggests a similar model. The article also provides comparisons with the elements of electric utility restructuring in the United States and explores the UK's impact on restructuring in the European Union (EU).