To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the Policy Paper published on 11 February 2026 entitled Local Power Plan, when the route to market for unlocking SLES will be operational.

The Department recognises requests to take steps to better enable local energy markets and trading to lower Bills and increase the resilience of the electricity networks. The Department is investigating barriers to local supply and is working with Ofgem, Great British Energy and relevant stakeholders to find solutions that work in the best interests of local generators and consumers.

The Department is also actively exploring policy options that will unlock Smart Local Energy Systems, including working with Innovate UK, local government and communities to develop opportunities for place‑based approaches.

Ofgem and Elexon’s work on code modifications, like P441, will help more community energy groups identify and understand the different routes to market in order to sell their energy. Industry feedback informed the Draft Modification Report considered by the Panel on the 12 March leading to the Final Modification Report submitted to Ofgem on the 17 March.