Wednesday 22 November 2023

UK unlocks 50GW capacity for early grid connection

The UK's electricity grid has accelerated the availability of 50GW capacity for generators and battery storage providers, exceeding initial schedules.

This accomplishment is attributed to coordinated efforts within the industry, driven by Electricity System Operator (ESO), Ofgem and the Energy Networks Association (ENA).

Together, they have implemented strategic legal and technical changes, resulting in the earlier-than-anticipated readiness of the grid for energy infrastructure connections.

The availability of this 50GW capacity aligns with the escalating demand from Britain's power networks, handling a surge in connection requests.

Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive of ENA, said:  "Today’s figures show the results of the huge efforts the sector is making, together with government and Ofgem, to remove the barriers to connect to the grid faster.

"However, this is only the beginning and it’s essential the government continues to work to make it easier for vital energy infrastructure to be built.

"Technical and legal changes will get us so far, but more infrastructure is going to be needed if we are to meet the UK and Scottish governments’ respective net zero targets."