Scots energy firm fined £500,000

The energy regulator said the fines sent a "clear message" to companies

Scottish and Southern Energy's power distribution arm has been penalised for failing to meet a three month-deadline for connecting customers.

The energy regulator Ofgem fined Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD) £500,000.

Ofgem said it was "vital" that customers got prompt connections.

The regulator said Perth-based Scottish Hydro co-operated with the investigation and the penalty could have been much higher if it had not.

Stuart Cook, from Ofgem, said: "Customers such as developers of housing estates or wind farms are reliant on local power network companies to provide a good service on connections.

"Today's penalty sends a clear message that the companies must meet the standards set by Ofgem for connection services."

Two other English-based firms were also fined for failures.

Central Networks has been ordered to pay £400,000 and Electricity North West Limited, £100,000.