Demand connections reform

Summary of responses

We have published a summary of responses to our call for input, setting out the views of 120 respondents and our analysis of the key themes raised. This document also presents Ofgem’s initial views on the feedback received, including how this has informed our emerging policy thinking ahead of forthcoming consultations. These initial views reflect our current thinking only and should not be read as final policy decisions. We will continue to refine our approach through upcoming consultations.

Original call for input

Call for input description 

This call for input builds on the update on demand connections we published on 6 November 2025. 

The demand connections process is currently facing three interrelated challenges, which are:  

• the demand queue is large and growing and contains a significant number of projects that are likely non-viable
• the demand queue contains a significant number of well-progressed projects that cannot progress to connection quickly enough, due to the time required for network or generation build, and the presence of non-viable projects
• there are no mechanisms to prioritise strategically important demand projects  

We therefore need a demand queue composed of viable projects which can progress to connection in a timely manner within the constraints of the energy system, which allows strategically important demand projects to be prioritised for connection if necessary.  

Working with government, NESO and network companies, we are building on TMO4+ to develop a package of reforms to the demand connections process, structured around three core pillars: Curate, Plan and Connect.  

We are seeking views from interested parties on the options we are currently considering, as well as any additional approaches we should consider, to reform demand connections. 

Who should respond 

We welcome responses from anyone with an interest in the demand connections process, including: 

• customers connecting to the network
• data centre developers
• network companies