The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has unveiled a comprehensive timeline to implement major reforms to the UK’s electricity grid connections system — a crucial move to accelerate the delivery of clean energy projects and support the country’s transition to net zero.
On 8th July, NESO opened an evidence submission window for transmission-connected projects and Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), allowing developers to demonstrate the maturity, deliverability, and strategic alignment of their projects with the UK’s Clean Power 2030 objectives. The window closed on 26th August, after which NESO will undertake the complex task of assessing over 3,000 projects currently in the grid queue.
This queue currently holds over 750GW of projects — more than four times the clean generation capacity needed by 2030 — creating significant bottlenecks and delays for viable clean energy developments. NESO plans to reorganise this queue and issue new connection agreements from autumn 2025, prioritising projects that are ready to be delivered and critical to meeting national climate goals.
Matt Vickers, Director of Connections Reform at NESO, said:
“This reform will help clear the backlog of ‘zombie projects’— those with little chance of progressing — and fast-track connections for shovel-ready projects that communities and businesses urgently need. Early and active engagement from developers will be essential to ensure the reform’s success.”
The reform represents a shift away from the current “first-come, first-served” approach, which has allowed speculative or undeveloped projects to hold up grid access for ready-to-go clean power initiatives. By prioritising projects that are both technically mature and strategically important, the reforms aim to unlock up to £40 billion annually in private investment in clean power and infrastructure.
Alongside NESO’s efforts, the Energy Networks Association (ENA) will provide essential support to developers and DNOs through weekly webinars and bespoke programmes. This will ensure all parties are fully informed and equipped to meet new process requirements, smoothing the transition and maximising efficiency.
Ofgem’s formal approval of these reforms earlier this year highlights their vital role in supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions, while also promising significant consumer benefits. By streamlining connections, the reforms are expected to reduce unnecessary network reinforcement costs, potentially saving bill payers around £5 billion over time, and contributing to lower energy bills.
Communities across the UK stand to benefit directly from the accelerated delivery of renewable energy projects, which will provide cleaner, more reliable power and support local green job creation in construction, engineering, and maintenance. This aligns with broader government strategies aimed at promoting sustainable growth, reducing carbon emissions, and boosting regional economies.
However, industry leaders stress that grid connection reform must be complemented by modernised planning and land access policies to fully unlock the UK’s renewable energy potential. Close collaboration between regulators, developers, network operators, and local authorities will be key to ensuring these reforms translate into tangible progress on the ground.
As NESO prepares to implement this landmark reform, it signals a turning point in the UK’s clean energy transition — one that promises faster, fairer grid access and tangible benefits for communities, businesses, and the environment alike.
