Demand connections update

Details

Since November 2024, there has been a sharp increase in demand connection applications far exceeding even the most ambitious forecasts for demand.

If not addressed, this risks delaying the timely connection of demand projects that are ready to unlock tangible benefits for consumers and citizens. These benefits include stimulating economic growth, lowering energy system costs, and supporting decarbonisation.

Building on the National Energy System Operator’s (NESO)'s TMO4+ reforms, we are now turning our focus to demand connection reform. In collaboration with government, NESO, and network operators, we are exploring a range of regulatory levers to enable timely and efficient connections for demand projects. In doing so, we will:

• curate a viable queue to enable demand projects to progress to connection
• enable faster connections through regulatory reform
• prioritise strategic demand connections

Alongside publication of this guidance, NESO – with our support – is launching a call for input on the entire demand queue. This process will gather deeper insight into the composition of the demand queue to inform any regulatory change that may be required.