Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 18
18
Deferred
Paragraph: 91
Actively monitor grid connection reforms and advance demonstrably ready projects to the front of the queue.
Recommendation
We recommend that the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and Ofgem actively monitor the progress of connection reform initiatives and the delivery of the transmission capacity required to facilitate new grid connections, and, where appropriate, streamline the measures already introduced. In particular, we recommend that Ofgem review its milestone queue reforms with a view to advancing projects which are demonstrably ready to connect to the grid to the front of the queue.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government's response focuses on accelerating infrastructure delivery through a new Bill and promoting renewable energy via changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, but does not specifically address monitoring existing connection reform initiatives or Ofgem reviewing its milestone queue reforms to advance ready projects.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
91
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government · verbatim extract
Deferred
Government and Ofgem are working at pace with the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and network companies to accelerate connections. In March 2024, Ofgem granted urgency status to code modification proposals for a reformed connections process5 that would require new and existing projects to demonstrate sufficient progress to obtain and retain a connection agreement. The capacity released will enable accelerated connection of viable generation and demand projects that align with our strategic needs, including ensuring projects necessary for 2030 Clean Power can connect in time. DESNZ and Ofgem published a joint open letter in November 2024 supporting proposals to align grid connections with strategic plans and announcing government’s intention to legislate to ensure the connections process enables delivery of the Clean Power by 2030 ambition.6 NESO plans to submit proposals and options for connections reform to Ofgem by the end of 2024. Ofgem is expected to make a decision on proposals in early 2025. DESNZ and Ofgem agree on the need to actively monitor progress on connections reform. This is done through the Connections Delivery Board,7 which also provides strategic direction to industry where further action is required. The Department has established a senior stakeholder group convened by the Minister for Energy to monitor actions across the Electricity Networks programme including those on connections reform.
Read the full response on Parliament ↗