Innova were delighted to take part in Roadnight Taylor’s Connectology® podcast on Grid Connections Reform last week.
Connectology® brings together Roadnight Taylor’s team of grid experts alongside industry guests to help audiences better understand distribution and transmission network connections.
Joe Colebrook, Head of Grid Connections at Innova, CUSC panel member, and Regen Working Group Chair, joined Pete Aston (Specialist Connections Engineer and Connectologist® at Roadnight Taylor), Nikki Pillinger (Specialist Connections Manager and Connectologist® at Roadnight Taylor) and Merlin Hyman (CEO of Regen) to chat about all things Grid Connections Reform.
The Connectology® podcast on Grid Connections Reform covered:
1. Connection process changes
The panel highlighted the complexities and uncertainties surrounding Connections Reform, focusing particularly on queue reshuffling and the introduction of new criteria for readiness and strategic alignment.
The uncertainty this will create for developers was discussed in light of various current challenges, such as delays in the supply chain, unpredictable planning, and the potential risks of having their projects moved in the queue.
2. Developer challenges
The conversation addressed the unclear criteria for “construction readiness” and the implications of queue reshuffling on ongoing projects. The panel also talked about broader concerns, including technical limitations and how distribution and transmission policies interact.
3. Financial Instruments
NESO recently proposed a £20,000 per MW financial security requirement. The panel explored how the Financial Instrument could potentially stifle competition within the sector and place a disproportionate burden on smaller developers.
4. Planning for Net Zero
Everyone acknowledged the ambition of the Clean Power 2030 Plan but emphasised the need for clearer definitions of technology and regional capacity targets. The discussion revealed the tension between market-driven strategies and the need for more centralised, strategic planning.
5. The path forward
The panel agreed that for reforms to be successful, collaboration, transparency, and evidence-based feedback are crucial. They urged active participation in consultations to help ensure the development of a competitive and efficient energy transition.