Ofgem highlights connections forum progress

Regulator Ofgem has highlighted the launch of a new forum as a major step towards implementing connections reform.

Its Connections Investor Delivery Engagement Forum aims to enable investors, developers, NESO and network companies to engage directly with government and Ofgem.

Nathan Macwhinnie, Ofgem’s Deputy Director of Strategic Planning and Connections, said the first event saw “strong, constructive feedback”.

“The message from industry is clear: progress is being made, but there is still more to do,” he said.

“It is important that these discussions lead to action. We expect NESO and network companies to listen carefully and respond to the issues raised. For our part, we'll continue to hold delivery partners to account through our Connections Governance arrangements.” 

Issues raised at the first meeting included rising connections costs, expiry of planning consents and knock on impacts on connection applications, and how the process should treat co-located sites.