Independent networks are no longer a challenger model. They are an integral part of how the UK delivers homes, connects communities, and meets its clean power 2030 goals.
As 2026 begins, the role of independent utility networks – across energy and water – is more important than ever. Independent operators are delivering the majority of new home connections, accelerating regeneration, and supporting the rollout of critical infrastructure for the low-carbon economy.
Here’s why that matters – and what needs to change this year to unlock their full potential.
From “alternative” to essential
Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs), Independent Gas Transporters (IGTs), and New Appointments and Variations (NAVs) in water emerged to introduce competition into monopoly markets. Today, they are leading delivery on:
- Major housing and regeneration schemes
- Low-carbon infrastructure such as EV charging and renewables
- Multi-utility networks designed from the outset for modern communities
In short, independent networks are not just competing — they are delivering. With 80% of new home energy connections now coming through independent operators, they have become a critical delivery partner for national growth.
Multi-utility delivery – faster, simpler, more resilient
Independent networks offer developers and planners a route to integrated, multi-utility delivery without the regional restrictions that limit traditional providers.
This model simplifies delivery, accelerates construction, and ensures homes are built with future-ready networks for EVs, heat pumps, smart metering, and digital connectivity. As Britain pushes to accelerate housing delivery, multi-utility provision is becoming indispensable.
Meeting the housing challenge – infrastructure first
Housing targets for this Parliament will not be met without parallel investment in infrastructure. Despite planning approvals, too many developments remain stalled due to connection delays or fragmented utility provision.
Independent networks are helping to unblock these constraints by offering:
- End-to-end, multi-utility connections
- Flexible delivery phasing for large sites
- Innovative commercial models and adoption routes
Their ability to work across Great Britain — including complex urban sites, infill, and new towns — makes them uniquely positioned to support housing delivery wherever it is needed most.
A big year for water reform
2026 is also set to be a pivotal year for water policy in England and Wales. Legislative changes under the Water Bill should look to streamline NAV licensing, environmental planning, and quality regulation if the government is serious about unlocking growth – all long-standing priorities for INA members.
At the same time, the Welsh Government’s proposal to establish a separate water regulator raises important questions around market consistency and competition. Independent operators stand ready to support reform that improves service, increases efficiency, and ensures fair access across both nations.
Regulated, reliable – and trusted by consumers
Customers on independent networks benefit from regulated standards that are equivalent to those of traditional operators. This includes reliability, safety, customer service, and future-ready network design. Independent operators understand that long-term success depends on maintaining consumer trust.
As 2026 begins, INA members remain committed to high service standards — and to ensuring customers benefit from innovation, investment, and choice.
Unlocking the potential: what policy must deliver in 2026
To enable independent networks to deliver even more, several policy shifts are essential this year:
- NAV licensing reform to remove delays and enable water competition at scale
- Completion of electricity connections reform, ensuring fair access to capacity and greater transparency
- Standardisation of land and consents processes across network types, to reduce legal barriers and accelerate infrastructure delivery
- Recognition of independent networks in national and regional infrastructure planning, ensuring they are embedded early in the development process
None of these changes weakens regulation. They strengthen the competitive framework — driving performance, speeding delivery, and reducing costs for consumers and developers alike.
A partnership model for the future
Independent operators are already delivering £42.6bn in housing investment and £4.5bn in EV charging infrastructure. Independent networks are the infrastructure partners delivering it. They offer a GB-wide model for growth that is fast, flexible, and fully aligned with net zero.
The case for policy and regulatory alignment is clear: if Britain is to meet its growth and climate ambitions, independent networks must be at the heart of delivery.
