This follows Ofgem’s invitation to RECCo in June 2026 to take part in the licensing assessment on a non-competitive basis. We submitted our assessment on 28 August, setting out our plans and capabilities to manage the future code.
In its notice, Ofgem confirms that, having assessed the information provided, it is satisfied that RECCo meets the selection criteria and proposes to grant us the ECC Code Manager licence.
The notice triggers the next phase of work, during which we will produce a detailed transition plan and prepare to deliver the Code Manager role. The licence will be granted once Ofgem has completed its assurance of our readiness to begin, which is currently expected in 2028.
A new opportunity for RECCo and the electricity market
RECCo CEO Elizabeth Lawlor said:
This is an important moment for the progression of energy code reform. The ECC Code Manager will play a central role in delivering the changes needed to support the energy industry transformation in line with Ofgem’s Strategic Direction Statements. RECCo is keen to utilise our experience in code consolidation and code management to benefit a wider part of the energy market.
Our strategy is built around three aims: Perform, Protect and Progress. Becoming the ECC Code Manager brings these together: delivering effective code management for industry, keeping consumers’ interests at the heart of change, and helping the market respond to the challenges and opportunities ahead.
We’ll continue to work in close collaboration with Ofgem, the CUSC and DCUSA communities and wider industry stakeholders in the coming months to ensure there is a smooth and efficient transition to the new arrangements. Thank you to everyone whose experience and constructive challenge have helped shape our approach so far.
What is the Electricity Commercial Code?
The Electricity Commercial Code (ECC) will bring together two existing electricity codes:
- Distribution Connection and Use of System Agreement (DCUSA)
- Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC)
Led by Ofgem as part of Phase 2 of its energy code reform programme, this consolidation aims to create a simpler, more accessible governance framework.
The goal is to make the rules easier to find, understand and follow, while supporting effective change across the electricity market and better outcomes for industry and consumers.
A key part of the reform is the introduction of licensed code managers, who will be responsible for independent decision-making and further simplification of code arrangements. The initial ECC consolidation process, led by Ofgem, will focus on bringing the two existing codes together, providing a foundation for the Code Manager to simplify and improve accessibility to the arrangements over time.
How RECCo is preparing
Our licensing assessment drew on our experience of consolidating and implementing the Retail Energy Code (REC), alongside months of engagement with stakeholders across the industry. Our approach reflects the importance of building on existing industry expertise while developing arrangements that support the future needs of the electricity market.
Today’s notice triggers the start of Ofgem’s formal Implementation and Assurance phase of the code manager selection process. During this phase, we’ll develop a detailed blueprint for the transition programme and code manager delivery model. In the coming months, we’ll work with Ofgem to refine our plans for approval and engage with industry to ensure a seamless transition to the new arrangements.
In December 2026, we’re also expected to become the licensed REC Code Manager as part of Phase 1 of code reform. We’ll continue to deliver our REC responsibilities while preparing for the future ECC, with appropriate separation of governance, funding and accountability.
What happens next?
We’ll continue working with Ofgem, existing code bodies, panels and wider stakeholders to develop the governance, services and delivery arrangements for the future ECC.
Until the ECC goes live, existing arrangements remain in place. CUSC and DCUSA will continue to operate under their current arrangements, with the same code bodies and panels overseeing the codes. For parties to either code, obligations, modification processes and day-to-day contacts will remain unchanged.
Throughout the transition, we’ll work closely with DCUSA and CUSC panels and code parties, as well as Ofgem, NESO and ElectraLink, to support a coordinated approach.
Join our November webinar
Following Ofgem’s announcement, we’ll host a webinar in the second half of November to update stakeholders on the ECC programme, explain our next steps and outline opportunities to get involved.
We’ll share details shortly.
Get involved
Stakeholder input will remain central to developing the future ECC arrangements. We encourage CUSC and DCUSA parties, and anyone with an interest in electricity commercial arrangements, to share their experience and priorities.
Visit our ECC programme webpage to register for updates and find out about upcoming engagement opportunities.
You can also contact ECC@retailenergycode.co.uk with questions or to get involved.
