Right now, we are in the middle of once-in-a-generation connections reform.
Experts from transmission, distribution, NESO, Ofgem, and the government are working together via the NESO Connections Reform Implementation Hub in order to reform the connections queue. All are making the necessary preparations to be ready to implement the new TM04+ processes once approved.
Soon, viable and strategically needed projects will be able to connect to the grid first, ensuring we are ready to meet the growth in electricity demand and net zero targets.
TM04+ in increasing resolution
One important area of continuing detailed design is the process for distribution customers when they do not meet Gate 2 requirements. Over the last few months, ENA and its members have been working closely on this with Ofgem and the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
These arrangements are still being finalised and are not yet confirmed, as they are dependent on the decision from Ofgem on both CUSC modifications CMP434, CMP435 and licence changes. As things stand, however, we expect the process will be similar to that of transmission customers, introducing the concept of Gate 1 at distribution.
ENA and the distribution network operators (DNOs) are currently working through the details of the distribution Gate 1 process. We will continue to keep you updated as this progresses.
In the meantime, do join the NESO Customer Connections Seminar in Edinburgh on the 2 of April. I’ll be speaking on a connections panel with NESO and the networks. If you can’t make it along, more details will be provided throughout the coming weeks and months by us and our members.
Connections reform goes to Westminster
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill was laid before Parliament for its first reading last week and brings us one step closer to both connections reform and to accelerating the delivery of the required infrastructure for net zero. The bill will help to speed up the planning process for network infrastructure and make it fairer and faster for everyone.
The bill also focuses on shifting towards a 'first ready, first connected' system for grid connection applications, which energy networks are already working to achieve.
Share your views
Ofgem will now review responses to the consultation ahead of their final decision. By the next time I’m writing this blog, we may even be preparing for implementation…
In the meantime, you can catch up on the latest minutes from the Ofgem Connections Delivery Board. Also keep an eye on the ENA website for the latest connections data coming soon, as well as checking our LinkedIn page for details of the next Strategic Connections Group webinar.
About us
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the energy networks. Our members include every major electricity network operator in the UK. The electricity networks are at the heart of the energy transition. They directly employ more than 26,000 people in the UK, including 1,500 apprentices. They are spending and investing £33bn in our electricity grids over the coming years, to ensure safe, reliable and secure energy supplies for the millions of homes and businesses reliant on power every day.
Press office contact
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