National Grid, the largest utility company in the UK, has re-appointed Bell Pottinger Public Affairs to provide comprehensive public affairs counsel.

The decision follows a rigorous selection process. Bell Pottinger Public Affairs was engaged by National Grid in July 2006 on a two-year contract. The contract was extended for one year and National Grid was then required to test the market.

BPPA will support National Grid in both the UK and the EU. Previously, they worked alongside a Brussels-based consultancy but Bell Pottinger now has its own office in Brussels. The main policy areas covered include energy, climate change and skills.

BPPA head of energy and sustainability Neil Stockley will continue to head up the National Grid account team.

Neil Stockley said:

“We are delighted that our productive and successful relationship with National Grid is continuing, with an expanded role and remit. A great deal has been achieved over the last three years and we look forward to building on that.”

Nicola Pitts, Head of UK and EU Public Affairs at National Grid, commented:

“We look forward to continuing our work with Bell Pottinger to ensure National Grid continues to lead the agenda on energy and climate change issues.”

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Notes to Editors


National Grid is an international electricity and gas company and one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. They play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to millions of people across Great Britain and northeastern US in an efficient, reliable and safe manner.

National Grid owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain. It also owns and operates the high pressure gas transmission system in Britain and its distribution business delivers gas to 11 million homes and businesses.

National Grid also operates the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.
*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.

www.nationalgrid.com

For further information contact Neil Stockley at Bell Pottinger Public Affairs on 020 7861 2416 or National Grid Media Relations on 01926 656536.