UK Power Networks uses Technical Limits scheme to fast track grid connections
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A Technical Limits scheme from UK Power Networks to unlock capacity for new energy generation has seen almost 1GW of projects accept fast-track offers to connect to the electricity network.
A total of 25 projects amounting to 836MW of generation are now set to connect to the grid as soon as they can build, under a new fast-track scheme developed by UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator in collaboration with the national system operator and other distribution networks.
The scheme is cutting years off the time to connect for projects that were initially informed they could have to wait up to a decade or longer to connect.
This announcement is the first phase in a series of capacity releases that are set to release multiple gigawatts of capacity for projects in 2024.
The connection offers have been enabled under a new process led by UK Power Networks called Technical Limits, which leverages the insights and data developed through its Distributed Energy Resource Management (DERMS) platform to safely connect more generation to the network.
Nationally, network operators have been working with customers to overcome well-known challenges to securing new connections, as a result of constraints on the national transmission system. Some customers had been told that without action they face a wait of 15 years or more until they can be connected to the network.
UK Power Networks is taking a leading role in the Strategic Connections Group through industry body Energy Networks Association (ENA).
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Customers who have had connection offers accepted include a 98MW solar farm in the East of England and a 100MW combined storage and solar site in the South East.
These are among 14 projects in the East of England totalling 465MW and a further 11 schemes in Kent, Surrey and Sussex totalling 371MW.
This volume of new generation amounts to roughly one fifth of the peak demand of the London distribution network.
Commenting in a release, Sotiris Georgiopoulos, director of DSO at UK Power Networks said: “We’re taking real, tangible action to help our customers overcome the long-term challenges on the national transmission system, an approach that is ultimately going to get more green energy into more people’s homes and businesses.
“This is just another step on our journey, and it is only by cooperation and collaboration that we’re able to make such important strides towards achieving net zero.”
Added Giles Frampton, director at Evolution Power Limited: “Working closely with UK Power Networks we have been able to bring forward a solar PV project’s connection date by four years, which will significantly contribute to the UK’s progress towards net zero and energy security, whilst also driving down the cost of electricity for both domestic and industrial consumers.
“We’re delighted that UK Power Networks is serious about working with renewable energy providers in tackling the challenge of connecting to the grid. UK Power Networks’ proactive engagement with developers is making a real difference to schemes that are ready to deliver low-carbon, low cost, sustainable green energy for the benefit of all.”
