Reforming Grid Connections
A guide for Transmission and Distribution connections
The Connections Reform evidence submission window opened early in July, to allow clients to submit evidence showing the readiness of their connection projects.
If you’re planning to submit evidence, talk to PURPOSE LAW.
At Utility Week’s recent Reforming Grid Connections Conference Matthew Vickers, Connections Reform Director at NESO (the National Energy System Operator), outlined how we’re reforming the grid connections process and how re-ordering the queue will speed up the delivery of clean power for the country.
We have added a link to the EVIDENCE SUBMISSION HANDBOOK published by NESO. Produced in association with the Energy Networks Association, which will help guide you through the process and to submit evidence as early as possible.
Please note that NESO has advised that the window for transmission-connected customers to submit their evidence will close on 29 July.
Tessa Laws
Purpose Law Founding Partner
Submitting evidence for your project as part of Connections Reform
As part of the reformed connections process, projects are assessed and assigned a status based on their readiness and Strategic alignment with the UK’s energy goals:
- Gate 1 applies to projects that do not meet the Gate 2 criteria. These projects will receive a Gate 1 offer or have the option to agree to terminate their connection request. Gate 1 projects will not be assigned a confirmed connection date but may progress through future windows if readiness is demonstrated (references to Gate 1 offers include both
Transmission connected and Distribution Gate 1 offers unless explicitly stated otherwise). - Gate 2 applies to projects that meet the new requirements for readiness and Strategic alignment. These projects can secure a confirmed connection date, connection point, and queue position.
Is your project connected to the distribution system and is classified under CUSC as small or medium?
You will submit evidence to your DNO. Click the title or image to be taken to the ENA’s website to find out more.
Is your project directly connected to the transmission system or are you a large BEGA or BELLA?
You will submit evidence directly to us at NESO. We are ready to help you. Click the image or title to find out more.
Submitting evidence for your project as part of Connections Reform
To support customers in submitting their evidence, NESO has published an Evidence Submission Handbook in partnership with Energy Networks Association (ENA) and network companies to serve as a single, accessible guide outlining what’s required for a successful submission.
We encourage customers to familiarise themselves with the handbook and engage with the NESO early to understand requirements for this process.
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