The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has announced plans to pause most new grid connection applications across Great Britain. The pause, starting 29 January 2025, aims to reduce delays and tackle inefficiencies in the current system, which has struggled to cope with a surge in requests.
This temporary measure is part of broader reforms to improve the connection process for clean energy projects and prioritise those ready to progress.
Tackling the queue
The grid connection backlog has grown significantly, with over 1,700 applications submitted in 2023/24 alone. The total capacity in the queue has risen to more than 700 gigawatts (GW), far exceeding the energy system’s needs for 2030 and beyond.
Ofgem has identified grid delays as a major bottleneck for clean energy projects like solar farms, power plants, and battery storage systems. A significant proportion of applications are from “phantom projects” that lack planning consent or a clear route to completion. NESO’s reforms will introduce application windows and progress milestones to ensure only viable projects remain in the queue.
NESO Director of Connections Reform Matt Vickers said:
“This transitional arrangement is critical to delivering the connections reforms we will implement later this year, subject to Ofgem approval. It’s a significant step forward in changing the grid connections process for the better. Our reforms prioritise projects which are ready to progress, and which are needed to deliver clean power by 2030.”
Transition period and exceptions
During the pause, NESO will work with Transmission Owners, including SSEN, Scottish Power Energy Networks, and National Grid Electricity Transmission, to implement the reforms. While most applications will be paused, large industrial and commercial demand projects directly connected to the national transmission network will still be processed. This exception supports Britain’s ongoing energy needs and industrial growth.
SP Energy Networks Chief Executive Nicola Connelly commented:
“Making the connection queue more efficient is essential to ensure the successful electrification of the UK economy. This is a key step in that journey, and we will work with NESO, our customers, and stakeholders to ensure new green energy projects that Britain needs will be connected to the grid as quickly and effectively as possible.”
Aiming for clean power by 2030
The UK government is targeting a clean power grid by 2030, with gas-fired power plants expected to supply just 5% of electricity, compared to around one-third today. Carbon capture technology will be required for these plants to continue operating.
NESO’s reforms are designed to align with these national goals, aiming to create a smoother pathway for clean energy integration.
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