Name
PANEL DISCUSSION: Can cross-sector collaboration unlock the key to future strategic planning?
Date & Time
Thursday, February 12, 2026, 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM
Speakers
Suleman Alli, Director of Finance, Customer Service & Technology, UK Power Networks
Michael Avant-Smith, Senior Vice President: Decarbonisation & Growth Strategy, BMA
Lorna Millington, Strategic Network Planning Manager, Cadent
Jon Chappell, Head of Water Resource and planning, Water UK
Suleman Alli Michael Avant-Smith Lorna Millington Jon Chappell
Description
  • How can gas, electricity and water work with local authorities to develop whole systems strategic plans that can accelerate project and funding approvals? 
  • Is more joined-up systems planning needed between NESO and the water industry’s new equivalent to more effectively meet decarbonisation goals? 
  • In light of the Cunliffe Review, does Ofgem need to step in and bridge the gap between gas and electricity to ensure positive cooperation going forward? 
  • The growing importance of flexible planning and its application