Network reinforcement

Connections are made to the existing distribution system and these new cables or sub-stations are termed extension assets.  Depending on the nature of the connection and the existing network usage, the existing network may need to be reinforced to cope with the additional load from a new connection.

Overall, less than 10% of connections require any distribution network reinforcement as we have developed our network so there's enough spare capacity to provide for the majority of new connections. At higher voltages, reinforcement is more common and in these cases, we're generally able to reinforce ahead of customer connection dates.
Connections are made to the existing distribution system and these new cables or sub-stations are termed extension assets.  Depending on the nature of the connection and the existing network usage, the existing network may need to be reinforced to cope with the additional load from a new connection.

Overall, less than 10% of connections require any distribution network reinforcement as we have developed our network so there's enough spare capacity to provide for the majority of new connections. At higher voltages, reinforcement is more common and in these cases, we're generally able to reinforce ahead of customer connection dates.

Where the reinforcement of our distribution system is likely to take longer, we’ll work with our customers to accommodate the new connection in a number of ways – for example, understanding the actual profile of load take-up after initial connection, by procuring network capacity from other users or through alternative innovative approaches.

For very large connections, the national transmission network may need to be reinforced. We will apply to the transmission system operator for this additional capacity and the lead times for this reinforcement work may be substantial. We're working with other distribution network businesses, the transmission network companies and Ofgem to improve utilisation of the transmission system, to remove slow-moving projects from the list of reserved capacity and towards a first-ready, first-connected approach.

Where the reinforcement of our distribution system is likely to take longer, we’ll work with our customers to accommodate the new connection in a number of ways – for example, understanding the actual profile of load take-up after initial connection, by procuring network capacity from other users or through alternative innovative approaches.

For very large connections, the national transmission network may need to be reinforced. We will apply to the transmission system operator for this additional capacity and the lead times for this reinforcement work may be substantial. We're working with other distribution network businesses, the transmission network companies and Ofgem to improve utilisation of the transmission system, to remove slow-moving projects from the list of reserved capacity and towards a first-ready, first-connected approach.

Market Segment Proportion of connections requiring no reinforcement Proportion of connections requiring distribution system reinforcement only Proportion of connections requiring transmission system reinforcement only
High Voltage Demand 89% 11% 0%
High Voltage with Extra-High Voltage Works Demand 78% 15% 6%
Extra-High Voltage and Above Demand 60% 6% 34%
High Voltage and Above Generation 49% 4% 47%

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