Major grid connections shake-up underway

A key stage in the transformation of the way projects connect to the electricity grid is now underway.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has opened its Connections Reform evidence submission window.

Until 29 July, energy generation and demand projects with an existing connections agreement can begin submitting evidence to showcase their readiness and strategic alignment with the UK’s energy goals.

The current connections queue stands at 738GW, more than four times the clean generation capacity required by 2030. The new assessment process aims to create a simpler, more transparent, and more timely way for the projects Britain needs to connect to the grid.

Kayte O’Neill, Chief Operating Officer at NESO said: “By prioritising agreements for projects that are critical and shovel-ready, developers will get the certainty they need to support investment decisions.

“It also gives energy consumers, from households and hospitals to electric car charging stations and data centres – the confidence of clean and stable power for generations to come.

“We advise all applicants to ensure they submit the correct evidence, so that we can assess applications fully and fairly.”