Regen has responded to Ofgem’s consultation on the grid connections process, emphasising the vital role that timely, efficient, and well-regulated connections play in achieving the UK’s net zero goals. Hannah Stanley runs through the recommendations.
Regen has responded to Ofgem’s consultation on the grid connections process, emphasising the vital role that timely, efficient, and well-regulated connections play in achieving the UK’s net zero goals.
As the demand for grid connections continues to grow, it is essential that the system supports the rapid deployment of renewable energy projects and ensures a resilient energy network.
Regen’s response, based on input from our members Grid Connections Working Group, focuses on the need for clear, enforceable standards and incentives to drive performance improvements from network operators. The consultation raised a number of issues around the timeliness of connections and the challenges faced by developers, and our response proposes several key recommendations aimed at addressing these pain points.
We believe that an increased emphasis on incentivising high performance in network operators is crucial for improving the connections process. While setting clear regulatory standards is necessary, it is just as important to create a culture where network operators are motivated to go above and beyond in meeting connection dates and providing high-quality service.
Here are our key recommendations to improve the grid connection process:
Set clear licence conditions on the outcomes that networks should be expected to deliver in the connections process, including both the quality and timeliness of connections.
Obligate networks to meet specified connection dates, backed by a financial instrument. This mechanism should be flexible enough to account for complex projects and delays beyond the networks’ control.
Explore an incentive mechanism to encourage a culture of proactive engagement, efficiency, and collaboration between developers and network operators.
Set clear standards for network operators to implement a standardised, streamlined, and digitalised customer journey for connections, with a route to financial recourse for customers in case of delays.
Incentivise excellent performance by network operators. This will encourage continuous improvements in efficiency and service quality across the connections process.
Incentivise the collection and dissemination of data on capacity and constraints on low-voltage networks to improve planning and enable better decision-making for minor connections.
By implementing these recommendations, we believe Ofgem can drive substantial improvements in the connections process. This will not only benefit developers and investors but will also contribute significantly to the UK’s decarbonisation efforts, making grid connections faster, more reliable, and better equipped to meet future demand.
For more information on the Regen members Grid Connections Working Group or any queries regarding the consultation response please contact Hannah Stanley.
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