The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has launched a three-week evidence window for energy projects with UK grid connection agreements, marking a major milestone in the transformation of Britain’s electricity network.
A New Era for Grid Connections
Running from 8 to 29 July, the evidence window is the first step in NESO’s plan to replace the outdated first-come, first-served system. This reform aims to clear the path for shovel-ready wind, solar, and storage projects that have been delayed by speculative or unviable developments.
Over 5,000 Projects Required to Submit Evidence
All projects currently in the 738 GW queue must now submit detailed evidence packs demonstrating their construction readiness and strategic value. Submissions will be assessed using NESO’s Connections Reform Evidence Handbook and sorted into two categories:
- Stream 1: Shovel-ready projects aligned with the Clean Power 2030 target will receive confirmed modification offers, including energisation dates, site data, and reinforcement needs.
- Stream 2: Projects that fall short will receive provisional deferred offers with no firm connection date. These may reapply in future biannual windows or withdraw.
Projects that fail to submit evidence by the deadline will automatically be placed in Stream 2.
Leadership Commentary
Kayte O’Neill, NESO’s Chief Operating Officer, called the launch a “once-in-a-lifetime transformation” of the UK’s electricity system:
“By prioritising agreements for projects that are critical and shovel-ready, developers will get the certainty they need to support investment decisions.”
Why Reform Is Urgent
The grid connection queue has grown tenfold in five years and now represents four times the generation capacity needed to meet the 2030 clean power target. Only 170GW of the current pipeline is expected to be required this decade.
Supporting the Government’s Plan for Change
This reform is central to the UK Government’s Plan for Change, which aims to unlock up to £40 billion in annual private investment and double onshore wind capacity, alongside rapid deployment of other renewables.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks described the evidence window as:
“A milestone in our work to overhaul the connections queue and unleash ready-to-go clean power projects.”
Next Steps and Timeline
NESO will publish the list of successful projects from September, with revised connection offers issued from autumn, starting with schemes due online in 2026–27. The goal is to finalise updated contracts for all projects needed to meet the 2030 target by early 2026.
Submission Process
- Transmission-connected projects and large embedded generators must submit evidence directly to NESO.
- Smaller distribution-connected schemes should submit through their Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
Regulatory Support
Jack Presley Abbott, Ofgem’s Deputy Director of Strategic Planning and Connections, said:
“These reforms will cut back red tape and fast-track ready-to-go home-grown clean power projects—supporting everything from housing and hospitals to EV charging and data centres.”
A Call for Accuracy and Transparency
NESO emphasised that complete and accurate submissions are essential for a fair and thorough assessment.
O’Neill added:
“This process will give consumers confidence that our power system can deliver clean, stable electricity for the long term.”
Notes to Editors:
Contact Information:
- This article is written by Jules Daly, Marketing and Communications Manager at Powersystems.
- Email jules.daly@powersystemsuk.com Telephone 01454 318000
- Photography Copyright please credit all images used to powersystemsuk.co.uk
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