The grid connection queue has expanded tenfold over the past five years, creating significant delays for solar, wind, and energy storage projects. To address this, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) paused new connection applications on January 29, 2025. NESO’s “TM04+” reform package prioritizes project readiness and alignment with energy system needs, moving away from the previous “first come, first served” approach.
Approved by Ofgem, the reforms reorganize the queue to favor projects that are ready and essential for achieving the UK’s target of 95% clean energy generation by 2030. The updated plan increases the solar capacity expected to secure connections from 39 GW to 65 GW. The changes apply to both existing and new projects, allowing stalled “zombie” projects to be cleared to make way for viable generation, storage, and interconnector initiatives. Revised connection offers are anticipated in the second half of 2025, prioritizing projects connecting in 2026 and 2027.
A new gating system will determine queue progression based on project readiness. Projects not meeting readiness criteria can apply for a “Gate 1” indicative connection date and point. Those with land rights or planning consents can enter “Gate 2,” a fast-track stream offering firm connection dates for transmission and distribution-level projects.
NESO Chief Operating Officer Kayte O’Neill stated: “The system operator will bring projects that are ‘critical and shovel ready’ to the front of the queue, giving developers the certainty they need to support investment decisions.”
UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband stated: “Our message to the global clean energy industry is clear; come and build it in Britain because we are a safe haven.”
Ofgem CEO Jonathan Brearley stated: “The reforms would cut through red tape, consign ‘zombie projects’ to the past and accelerate homegrown renewable power and energy storage connections as we head to 2030.”
The reforms align with NESO’s upcoming Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP), set for release in 2026, which will guide large-scale generation and storage development. Projects aligned with the SSEP are expected to navigate planning consents more easily, supporting faster grid connections. These changes aim to streamline clean energy deployment, enhance energy security, and drive economic growth in Great Britain.
