Targeted changes aim to accelerate project approvals and enable timely grid connections for viable energy projects.
National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) has introduced targeted reforms to speed up connecting to the electricity grid, building upon its existing five-point plan.
To identify non-viable projects and enable faster connections for those ready and able to connect, the ESO has written to parties seeking grid connection, requesting updates on their progress and project milestones.
The initiative follows a recommendation by the Code Panel, responsible for energy industry code changes, to modify how connection contracts are managed. These changes will allow the ESO to manage the connection queue more effectively.
Collaboration between National Grid ESO and Ofgem is underway to implement these reforms.
Energy generators that are not progressing and will not meet their connection dates will have the option to either move backwards in the queue or voluntarily withdraw, making room for projects that are actively meeting their milestones and eager to connect. Consequently, these reforms will enable projects to be connected up to ten years earlier.
The milestones set for projects include practical requirements such as securing project financing, land acquisition, obtaining planning permission, and commencing construction. Projects facing timeline delays caused by network build issues outside the developers' control will not be negatively affected by these changes.
To ensure the verification of project progress towards contracted connection dates, National Grid ESO will be supported by an international engineering consultancy and a legal firm.
There are around 220 projects scheduled to connect to the national transmission system before 2026, totaling approximately 40 GW. This amount exceeds double the peak demand during summer months across Great Britain. However, only half of these projects have obtained planning consent thus far, and some have postponed their connection dates by over fourteen years.
