Connections Data

Joint Transmission and Distribution Connections Dashboard 

The following summary of the combined Transmission and Distribution Databook’s aims to be inclusive of all new connections data at 1MVA/1MW and above, at both Transmission and Distribution levels for demand, storage and generation projects.

The data is compiled following month end and is developed on a reasonable endeavours process by the relevant organisations, to facilitate the monthly provision of the date it is not assured to the standards of regulatory submission guidance.

Due to the cross over of certain schemes that are embedded within the Distribution Networks but additionally are required to or opt to apply to National Grid for a BELLA or BEGA, some projects have applications and acceptances reported in both Transmission and Distribution data sets.

For the purposes of this summary report this is deemed appropriate when looking at the applications and acceptances received by the individual network operators. However, for the “Total Contracted Connections” element of the summary report, such embedded schemes with a BELLA or BEGA are only counted once to ensure that a single combined pipeline is presented (Note: as such it may not be possible to reconcile last month’s total contracted connections figure, this month’s total contracted connections figure and this month’s new acceptances and connections delivered data)

• Joint transition and distribution databook

  March 2024

  • Overall, the growth in the queue and the rate of new applications continue to be high, with 707GW currently in the queue; 47GW being demand and 659GW from export and storage. In March 10.38GW of new connections offers were accepted.
  • The queue continues to be dominated by renewables (348GW, 49% of the queue) and storage (222GW, 31% of the queue) far exceeding GB energy needs for net zero.
  • Networks are connecting customers at a greater pace than ever before.
  • There remains significant capacity that networks can accommodate without delay, including over 57GW of distribution connecting customers that have no dependency on transmission works, and 38GW of transmission connecting projects that have been offered connection dates in the next three years.  Actual connection of these projects will be subject to customer timelines, milestone management, attrition rates and other factors (e.g. supply chain).
  • However, the significant (and growing) queue continues to result in connection delays for customers:
  • 31% of transmission offers in March met the requested connection date, with an average difference between offered and requested connection date at transmission of 34 months.
  • 65.32% of distribution capacity contracted is dependent on or being assessed for transmission reinforcements.

  Connections queue summary

  March

  Transmission

  Distribution

  February

  Total Contracted Connections Offer (GW)

  707 GW

  541 GW

  166 GW

  700 GW

  Total Contracted Connections Offer (GW) - (Export & Storage)

  659 GW

  515 GW

  144 GW

  656 GW

  Total Contracted Connections Offer (GW) - Demand

  47 GW

  26 GW

  21 GW

  44 GW

  New Applications Received

  55 GW

  27 GW

  28 GW

  37 GW

  New Connections Offers Accepted

  10.38 GW

  5.17 GW

  5.2 GW

  30.13 GW

  Total Connections Delivered

  0.93 GW

  0.66 GW

  0.27 GW

  0.29 GW

  Distribution queue by network works

  March

  March % of total

  No Reinforcement Dependencies and Distribution Reinforcement only; No Transmission Reinforcement

  57.15 GW

  34.52%

  Transmission Reinforcement only; No Distribution Reinforcement and Distribution and Transmission Reinforcement

  57.16 GW

  33.32%

  Pending Decision on Reinforcement Dependency

  53.23 GW

  32%

  Total

  165.54 GW

  100%

Networks' Online Resources & Tools

Below you will find a full list of energy networks' online connections tools and data.

If you are unsure about who your operator is, enter your postcode using the finder here: Postcode Finder

• Electricity North West (ENWL)

  Data Portal: We have a data portal page on the website where you can find links to information such as Network Data, Connections Data, Forecasting Data and Operational Data, including options to view our Long Term Development Statement (LTDS) and our Network Development Plan (NDP), along with our Distibution Future Energy Scenarios (DFES). There are also links to capacity data, our Embedded Capacity Register.

  Open Data: We have our open data portal that provides a wealth of information about the network which will aid developers planning their connection. A shortcut to this can also be found on the “Data Portal” page referenced above. This service requires registration.

  Heat Maps: We have our heat map tool that enables Developers to assess the level of capacity that might be available for new connections to ENWL’s network. A shortcut to this can also be found on the “Data Portal” page referenced above.

  Network Asset Viewer: We provide access to our network access viewer which allows you to search for assets on ENWLs distribution network. Once registered customer can use this interactive map to identify the attributes of a specific asset and search an area of interest. A shortcut to this can also be found on the “Data Portal” page referenced above. This service requires registration.

  Pre-Application Support: Customers can get pre-application support and discuss their requirements, get support on submitting an application, discuss possible solutions for their needs and generally resolve initial enquires by engaging through our PACE (Pre-Application Customer Engagement). They can be contacted through PACE@enwl.co.uk or 0800 988 1730.

  Connections Surgeries: Customers can arrange / book a connections surgery where they can meet with / speak to ENWL Connetions Experts about their potential projects, discuss available capacity and / or constraints in a specific area, investigate potential connection options or even consider different site locations.

  Generation Focused Information: We provide focused information on generation and storage schemes including information of G99, Application Processes and Minimum Information Requirements, Transmission Impact Assessment and Flexible Connections solutions.

  Embedded Capacity Register: We provide access to the embedded capacity register which details all connected and contracted generation within ENWLs network area. There is a specific section of the register for generation at 1MW or above in capacity. A shortcut to this can also be found on the “Data Portal” page referenced above.

  Larger Demand Information: We provide further information on larger demand schemes including information on the Application Options, Minimum Information Required, Timescales and FAQs.

  Competition in Connections: We have a page for information regarding competition in connections and ICP’s / IDNO’s which has information both for Developers and ICPS.

  Connections area: Our general connections section of the website can be found here.

  Common Connection Charging Methodology: Our latest version of the common connections charging methodology can be found here.

  Budget Estimates: This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Guides for Fleets: This tool provides guidance for operators on electrifying their fleets.

  Long Term Development Statements (LTDs): LTDS is provided for the purpose of allowing existing and potential customers to make an initial assessment of the capabilities of the electricity network and opportunities for changes in their use of the network or for connecting to it.

   

• Electricity Systems Operator (ESO)

  ESO Connections Home Page: Central, external website for ESO Customer connections, with links to additional information and resources (Queue management, Five-Point Plan, Connections Reform, Two-Step Offer).

  ESO Connections Website– Connections Process: Dedicated web page explaining the connections journey for the customer with downloadable resources (Application Forms, Data Registration Code (DRC) tool, Application Fee Calculator).

  Connections Portal Registration Page: Guides customers to the ESO Portal registration page, with summary of current and planned Portal functionality.

  Connections Portal: Tool for developers to submit applications and review project portfolio.

  Connections Offer Process Page: Includes information about the connections offer process; split into five parts, each of which contain step-by-step guidance on roles and responsibilities; links to relevant resources.

  Customer Connections Events: Information on upcoming industry events (led/ supported by the ESO); document repository with previous publications.

  Compliance Process: Summarises the Operational Notification and Compliance Process (ONCP) facilitated by ESO in respect of new generation connections

  TEC Register: A list of projects that hold contracts for Transmission Entry Capacity (TEC) with us. These include existing and future connection projects and projects that can be directly linked to the NETS or connected at a distribution level.

  Embedded Register: A list of connected or contracted to connect embedded generation projects in Scotland.

  Interconnector Register: A list of interconnector projects that hold connection contacts with us. These include active interconnectors and future interconnector projects.

  Transmission Works Report: A list of all the transmission reinforcement schemes being carried out across Transmission Owners to facilitate customer connections.

  Limited Duration Transmission Entry Capacity (LDTEC): A list of customer applications and relevant details for Limited Duration Transmission Entry Capacity (LDTEC).

  Short Term Transmission Entry Capacity (STTEC): A list of customer applications and relevant details for Short Term Transmission Entry Capacity (STTEC).

• National Grid Electricity Distribution

  Maps Hub: A selection of the maps below on one page.

  Live Data Viewer: Provides line and historic data for demand, import and generation.

  Network capacity Map: Provides an indication of the networks capabilities to connect large scale developments to major substations.

  EV Capacity Map

  Common Information Model (CIM): Provides complete network connectivity and asset data to enable network modelling and assessment.

  Dataportal2: Provides online access to NGED’s asset information and network records.

  Spatial datasets: Electricity Supply Areas (ESAs) data including GSP, BSP and primary substations.

  Clearviewconnect: A comprehensive review of capacity headroom and the pipeline of connections at our GSPs.

  Generation Capacity Register (GCR): Listings of generators that are connected to, or in the process of applying for a connection to, NGED’s distribution network.

  Embedded Capacity Register (ECR): Generation and storage resources (>50kW) that are connected, or accepted to connect, to NGED’s distribution network.

  DG EHV Constraint Maps: Maps of EHV networks highlighting circuits that are operating at or near to their limits for the connection of any further DG.

  Signposting: Provides information on NGED’s distribution network needs in areas which are expected to become constrained for demand in future.

  Network Flexibility Map: Zonal display of where our network is currently seeking flexibility or may seek flexibility in future.

  Long term Development Statement: Allows users to identify and assess opportunities for making new or additional use of the distribution network.

  Network Investment Map: Details a selection of projects that are planned or have been completed.

  Distribution Future Energy Scenario (DFES) Map: A visual representation of the scenario projections which NGED use for long term strategic network planning.

  Connection Surgeries: Arrange an appointment for a connections surgery with NGED.

  Budget Estimates: This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Heat Maps (demand): This tool enables customers to assess the level of capacity that might be available for new connections to DNO network.

   

• National Grid Electricity Transmission

  Research Assistant: Ensures customers have access to information they need before moving forward with their application. Customers can access specific regional and site information including key substation details and earliest potential connection dates.

  NGET ways of working for Connections: Provides an overview of NGETs ways of working throughout the connections process, as well as useful context for customers to be aware of, such as the planning and utilisation of new and existing substations.

  Connection Process: Key pages on the connections process for customers to easily access.

  Key Recent Connections: Highlights some key recent connections NGET have delivered across their network.

  Regional Webinars: Customers that have an open ESO portal account can sign up for regional webinars with NGET and ESO, which walk through the transmission works ongoing in each region, and provide overview of specific substation sites.

• Northern Ireland Electricity Networks

  Budget Estimates: This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Heat Maps (demand): This tool enables customers to assess the level of capacity that might be available for new connections to DNO network.

• Northern Powergrid

  Indicative Price and Timescales: View indicative prices and timescales for connection to help inform project planning.

  Access Data and information: Access data and information about NPg’s electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire.

  Heatmaps: View NPg’s network generation and demand heatmaps to understand the available capacity near your site to assess the timescales and cost of connecting in that area

  Development Project Opportunities: Assess opportunities available for development projects that require new or additional connections

  Embedded Capacity Register <1MW: Assess information on connected resources and network services < 1MW

  Embedded Capacity Register >1MW: Assess information on connected resources and network services ≥ 1MW

  Self-Service Budget Estimate Tool: Self-serve budget estimates for new connections up to 210kVA

  FES (Future Energy Scenarios) Information: Assess information on potential future events built around the scenarios defined in the National Grid FES (Future Energy Scenarios).

  Flexibility Services: View where NPg is tendering for Flexibility Services and participate in the local flexibility market (Piclo Flex and Flexible Power)

  Distributed Secondary Substation Data: Assess capacity of NPg’s Secondary Substation to understand the likelihood of being able to make demand connections in that area.

  LCT (Low Carbon Technology) Connection Guide: Assess the impact of connecting additional Low Carbon Technology demand and generation

  Major Project Pipeline Look Up

  Budget Estimates: This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Connection Surgeries: Connections meetings service provides an opportunity for a customer looking to connect to discuss the project with DNO experts from pre-application to delivery.

  Guides for Fleets: This tool provides guidance for operators on electrifying their fleets.

  Long Term Development Statements (LTDs): LTDS is provided for the purpose of allowing existing and potential customers to make an initial assessment of the capabilities of the electricity network and opportunities for changes in their use of the network or for connecting to it.

• Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN)

  SSEN Distribution Data Portal

• Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Transmission

  Overview of the TOs and NGESO: Map showing who is responsible for which area and the corresponding voltages.

  Customer Connection Process: The main customer connections page with links to information about who is involved in the process and how to prepare an application.

  Request a Pre-Application Call: Arrange a pre-application call with SSEN Transmission to discuss a potential project.

  Charging Statements and information: Current and historical SSEN Transmission Owner charges including General System Charge, Site Specific Charges and Other Charges.

  Transmission Owner Reinforcement Instruction (TORI) Updates: Quarterly updates on our TORI projects, which may include Enabling Works or Wider Works, designed to reinforce the transmission network to facilitate the connection of generation.

  Contact Us: A hub of contacts in SSEN Transmission to allow you to connect to the right team directly.

  Open Data Portal: Online access to the open data catalogue and submit and view data requests.

  Customer Experience Strategy: SSEN Transmission’s comprehensive Customer Experience Strategy based upon feedback from customers and stakeholders.

  Projects for delivering a Network for Net Zero: Find out about the Pathway to 2030 projects SSEN Transmission is delivering to upgrade the network infrastructure across the north of Scotland.

  News and views: Latest updates from SSEN Transmission.

  Budget Estimates:  This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Guides for Fleets: This tool provides guidance for operators on electrifying their fleets.

  Long Term Development Statements (LTDs): LTDS is provided for the purpose of allowing existing and potential customers to make an initial assessment of the capabilities of the electricity network and opportunities for changes in their use of the network or for connecting to it.

  Heat Maps (demand): This tool enables customers to assess the level of capacity that might be available for new connections to DNO network.

  Guides for Fleets: This tool provides guidance for operators on electrifying their fleets.

• SP Energy Networks

  SPEN Open Data Portal: This requires users to make an account and log in.

  Generation connections: This includes links to Heat Maps, ECR, application forms and guides.

  How to connect: Getting Connected - SP Energy Networks

  Incentive on Connections Engagements

  Budget Estimates: This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Connections Surgeries: Connections meetings service provides an opportunity for a customer looking to connect to discuss the project with DNO experts from pre-application to delivery.

  Guides for Fleets: This tool provides guidance for operators on electrifying their fleets.

  Long Term Development Statements (LTDs): LTDS is provided for the purpose of allowing existing and potential customers to make an initial assessment of the capabilities of the electricity network and opportunities for changes in their use of the network or for connecting to it.

• SP Energy Networks Transmission

  General SPEN Transmission information

  Connections Application Leaflet: How to apply for a connection to the SP Transmission Network.

  Connections Data and Heat Maps: Information on Transmission connections including Interactive Investments Maps, Heat Maps, Pre-Applications Engagement, Charging Statement, details on Reinforcement Schemes, Application Process and other avenues of connections data.

  Customer Portal: Registration/login for customer connections portal: SPEN Customer Portal.

  SPEN Open Data Portal: This provides access to various data on Distribution and Transmission networks, including ECR and heat maps.

• UK Power Networks

  Connections Overview: Information for developers on connections, products, performance, network overview and service development programme.

  Open Data Portal: Network asset and running condition data allowing developers to self-serve and gain insight to the implications of a connection ahead of applying.

  Including Contents Overview of Open Data Portal

  Technical Standards Library (G81)

  Low Carbon Connection guidelines: Useful guides have been developed to help installers and customers gain an understanding of the steps involved in the install Low Carbon Technologies.

  Site Planning Tool: The Site Planning Tool is designed to help fleet managers appropriately size electricity connection requests based on the requirements of their vehicles, demonstrating the potential benefits of Smart Charging.

  On-line automated application and registration of Low Carbon Technologies for Installers

  Automated On-Line Connection Application Portal

  Budget Estimates: This tool can provide an indication of the charge for a new connection. There is no cost to apply for a budget offer and does not include any network studies.

  Heat Maps (demand): This tool enables customers to assess the level of capacity that might be available for new connections to DNO network.

  Connections Surgeries: Connections meetings service provides an opportunity for a customer looking to connect to discuss the project with DNO experts from pre-application to delivery.

  Guides for Fleets: This tool provides guidance for operators on electrifying their fleets.

  Long Term Development Statements (LTDs): LTDS is provided for the purpose of allowing existing and potential customers to make an initial assessment of the capabilities of the electricity network and opportunities for changes in their use of the network or for connecting to it.