The energy regulator Ofgem has published an open letter calling for wholesale reform of the electricity connections process in the UK.

The letter says that the UK is at a “pivotal moment” in its net-zero ambitions, and to be on track for 2035 and 2050 targets immediate action is required.

With over 40 per cent (120GW) of all new generation capacity holding transmission connection agreements today having connection dates of 2030 or beyond there is too great a lag on connections. Perhaps even worse, the total contracted capacity exceeds ESO’s predicted total future generation under every scenario in 2030 and the majority in 2050.

With the government’s recent Powering up Britain publication promising to deliver the new nuclear, offshore wind and solar generation essential to achieve our decarbonisation goals, ensuring these assets can connect when and where they are needed will be crucial in achieving net-zero, delivering affordability for consumers and maintaining security of supply.

Ofgem are seeking views on its proposals detailed in the letter and plan and is inviting stakeholders to submit feedback by 16 June 2023.

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