NESO’s connections reform results signpost route to clean power
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has confirmed a new pipeline of deliverable, construction-ready energy projects that will be prioritised for connection to the electricity network, unlocking £40 billion in clean investment annually and driving progress towards the government’s Clean Power 2030 target.
Thousands of projects, from wind and solar farms to battery storage and hydrogen are being informed whether they are part of the 283 GW of generation and storage capacity and 99 GW of transmission-connected demand.
This defined set of deliverables will form a new pipeline as the system moves from a first-come, first-served model to one that prioritises projects ready to meet Great Britain’s energy and economic needs.
The transformation of the connections process sends a clear signal to the energy industry on where new network needs to be built and by when.
Only a few months ago, 800 gigawatts, equivalent of four times the clean generation capacity needed to achieve the UK’s 2030 target, was waiting to connect to the UK’s grid.
Connections reform will ensure Britain has the power it needs post 2030, as electricity demand is projected to almost triple up to 2050. Following notifications, the first batch of protected projects scheduled to connect in 2026/2027 will begin receiving formal offers with confirmed connection dates throughout December and into the new year, with remaining offers to be finalised by Q3 next year.
Projects seeking to reapply for inclusion in the connections process will be able to do so from late 2026. To qualify, they must demonstrate both readiness to progress and strategic alignment with the Government’s Clean Power Action Plan.
Kayte O’Neill
Kayte O’Neill, Chief Operating Officer, NESO said:
“Transforming the grid connections process is a vital first step in unlocking the capacity needs for a secure, affordable energy transition. These changes will cut grid bottlenecks by prioritising ready-to-build projects, giving certainty about when and where they can connect and unlocking billions in clean energy investment.
These changes wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration of our partners over the last two years. Together, we’re laying the foundations for a resilient, efficient and future-ready energy system that delivers for British consumers and the economy.”
Lawrence Slade
Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive of ENA observed:
“This announcement from NESO marks a pivotal moment for the energy sector as a whole. The complex task of reforming the connections queue has required deep collaboration across the sector. Networks have played a critical role by working closely with customers and industry, conducting detailed evidence checks and providing timely submissions to NESO. Ultimately, this reformed connections process will mean fair and faster connections for GB customers”.