Romal calls on Ofgem to intervene in Liverpool Waters power row
Romal Capital and Peel are locked in a dispute about the cost of the former obtaining an electricity connection for a residential scheme within the £5.5bn waterfront masterplan.
Romal Capital, which has built 372 apartments at Liverpool Waters and is on site with another 192, claims landowner Peel and subsidiary Leep Electricity Networks, as well as Ancala Essential Growth Infrastructure Fund, have “abused a dominant market position” in relation to charges for grid connections.
The development company, headed up by Greg Malouf, has now called upon energy watchdog Ofgem to intervene.
“We are committed to delivering high-quality homes that contribute to Liverpool’s regeneration,” he said.
“However, instead of fair and transparent access to essential infrastructure, we have faced unjustified delays, excessive costs, and a campaign to undermine our progress.”
A Peel spokesperson said: “Peel Waters will happily work with Ofgem to review this claim.”
A spokesperson from Leep said: “We are confident that all the actions we have taken in this case have been appropriate and in line with relevant regulations. Leep Utilities will cooperate with the relevant parties to help resolve this case.”
Romal has described the £695,325 it was quoted by Leep Electricity Networks as “unreasonable”, saying Scottish Power could do the same work for £11,744.
In addition, Romal claims Leep Electricity Networks failed to publish its connection charging statement online, which is a breach of licence conditions, and that Peel has been involved in negotiations about network connections despite not having the required licence.
“This is not just about our development, it’s about ensuring fair competition and a level playing field for all developers who contribute to the region’s growth,” Malouf added.
“We are cooperating fully with Ofgem’s investigation and are pleased with its commitment to uphold the integrity of the regulatory framework.”
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