The UK's grid operator has offered grid connection dates to more than 700 clean energy projects since the start of the year, representing over half of the schemes needed to meet the government's 2030 clean power target. The National Energy System Operator (Neso) has worked for two years to clear a backlog that threatened to delay projects into the 2030s.
Labour's Clean Energy Ambition
Labour came to power nearly two years ago with a promise to double onshore wind, triple solar power, and quadruple offshore wind capacity. However, doubts arose due to lengthy grid connection delays caused by a surge of speculative applications in the 'first come, first served' queue.
Clearing the Backlog
Since late 2023, Neso has removed hundreds of speculative 'zombie projects' from the queue, allowing shovel-ready schemes to connect. These 700+ projects, including wind and solar farms, battery storage, gas, and hydro plans, amount to 37 gigawatts of new capacity—over a third of the 100GW needed by 2030.
Stricter Criteria for Connection
Under new rules, projects must meet stricter criteria, including planning permission, land rights, and alignment with clean energy targets. This ensures only viable projects receive connection dates.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: 'Upgrading the grid and making it easier for clean power projects to connect will help protect bill payers from fossil fuel price spikes. This milestone is a landmark step in putting connections reform into action.'
Kayte O'Neill, Neso's chief operating officer, added: 'These offers give developers the certainty they need to invest, supporting economic growth. They also help deliver the reliable, clean and affordable energy system Britain needs.'
The government aims for a virtually carbon-free grid by 2030, with these connections marking significant progress toward that goal.
