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ENA’s Connect Direct passes 15,000 applications as the project enters its next phase

10 October 2024

ENA Connect Direct has surpassed 15,000 applications — a significant milestone in the growth of the platform that potentially represents thousands of hours saved in administration for installers. The platform has also now rolled out of phase 2 of the project, which will mean additional functionality for users. 

 

ENA Connect Direct is a digital service which can provide instant approvals for routine applications from installers for low-carbon technology such as EV charging point or heat pump installation. The online platform, that launched its full product in May of this year, uses AI to automate assessments and escalate more complex applications. 

When these applications are escalated to the network operator for review, the system still has an average processing time of 1.5 days. Previously, processing could take around 10 days. 

A recent update to the platform integrates commissioning, allowing users to provide installation and commissioning details for generation devices at customer premises. The Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN) is now automatically added based on the customer’s address, allowing for simple application creation, and improvements to the LCT device search make finding different technology like solar and PVs much easier.

Dan Clarke, Head of Innovation at Energy Networks Association, said: 

“Installers of low-carbon technologies should be able to connect to the grid quickly and easily. That’s why it’s fantastic to see a high level of uptake for ENA Connect Direct in such a short space of time. The growth of the platform also reflects the increasing popularity of low-carbon technologies as part of the UK’s decarbonisation journey. Not only will the installers, manufacturers, and distribution network operators benefit from an easier connection process, but customers and, ultimately, the planet will too. I am pleased more than 5,000 registered users have joined the site.” 

Notes to editor

  • The platform is available for standard domestic solar panels, heat pumps, EV chargers and battery system applications across the UK. 
  • Demand for electricity has evolved significantly in the last 60 years. Residential households with low-carbon technologies increase their peak usage to almost 15kW compared to an average usage in the 1960s of less than 1kW. 

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.

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