Connections Reform

The electricity industry is going through major changes to ensure that we are supporting the government’s Clean Power by 2030 initiative. Previously, projects have been able to connect to our network on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis, which has caused a back log with projects not having the necessary plans in place to ensure they are ready to connect.

Ofgem’s approval of Connections Reform in April marks a significant milestone and effectively gives industry the mandate to start doing things differently for customers applying to connect generation to both transmission and distribution networks.
 
Ofgem’s approval of Connections Reform is supported by two new CUSC (Connection and Use of System Codes) modifications, CMP 434 and 435 and NESO methodologies, setting out the how.

At UK Power Networks we are committed to supporting our customers through this process, through our forums, surgeries and a three-weekly call to ensure you have all the information you need before applying.

Customers will need to demonstrate the readiness of their project which is checked by us, the DNO, (for <100MW) and NESO will need to confirm that the project is needed i.e. strategically aligned. Customers are required to submit evidence to demonstrate both readiness and strategic alignment.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) website has information on all elements of Connections Reform including:

• Connections Reform timeline
  
  
• Methodologies
  
  
• Evidence guidance handbook
  
  
• Connections Reform FAQs

Use our Network Operational Data Dashboard to access information about Grid Supply Points, grid, primary and secondary substations before making your application.

Find out more about Connections Reform, Improving and accelerating customer connections on the Energy Networks Association (ENA) website.