The UK’s electricity grid is undergoing one of the biggest changes in its history. Demand for connections has reached record levels, and new reforms are being introduced to help manage capacity, accelerate delivery and bring renewable projects online sooner.
These changes will affect how projects are planned, approved and connected. For developers, operators and investors, understanding the new process is essential to keep projects on track.
We’re here to help navigate this new landscape with clarity and confidence.
Grid Reform
The clock is ticking
Notifications to customers from the 1st of December
Understanding the change
The UK grid is changing. The old first come first served approach to connection offers has been replaced by a new model known as First Ready, First Connected.
This change means projects can no longer hold a place in the queue based only on when they applied. Instead, they must be able to show that key milestones are complete such as land rights, planning approval and confirmed funding.
The aim is to unlock grid capacity more quickly by giving priority to the projects that are ready to build, helping to accelerate the transition to a smarter and more efficient energy network.
What this means for developers and asset owners
For many customers, this shift means that waiting for a connection offer is no longer enough. Projects that sit still risk being unable to meet their offer once it arrives. Long lead time equipment, design approvals and land agreements all need to be progressing now.
Understanding your programme, securing supply chains and building confidence in your design will make the difference between being ready to connect and falling foul of severe delays.
How Sinewave can help
No matter where you are at in the process, Sinewave can help identify opportunities to strengthen your position.
We work with clients to make sure their projects are connection ready. Our in-house design team, project engineers and field specialists understand what Distribution Network Operators are searching for.
From early-stage design, consultation and technical studies through to construction and energisation, we help you build confidence in your connection offer and keep your project moving.
Ready to move forward
Grid reform is reshaping how connection projects progress across the UK, but it also creates new opportunities for those who are prepared.
Whether you are at the early design stage or finalising your connection offer, our team can help you understand what is needed to stay ready and keep momentum.
Speak to our team today to find out how Sinewave can support your next connection project
FAQs
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Grid reform is a set of changes being introduced across the UK to improve how projects connect to the electricity network. It aims to reduce delays, free up capacity and ensure that projects which are ready to build can connect sooner.
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Under the new system, projects will no longer keep their place in the queue based only on when they applied. Instead, they must show that key milestones such as land rights, planning permission and funding are in place. Those who are ready will move ahead faster.
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Grid reform affects everyone who is developing, building or operating a project that requires a grid connection. This includes renewable developers, infrastructure providers, local authorities and private network operators.
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Sinewave supports clients throughout the connection process. Our in-house design team and project engineers help prepare applications, technical studies and programmes of work that demonstrate readiness to the DNO. We make sure our clients are in the strongest position to move forward when connection offers are released.
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Many of the reforms are already being phased in, with new connection management processes expected to continue evolving throughout 2025. Staying informed and ready to act will help projects adapt as the process develops.