ESO launches transmission amnesty for stalled projects

National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) has launched an amnesty for stalled projects on the Transmission Entry Capacity (TEC) register, which orders the queue for connection to the transmission network.

During the two-month amnesty window covering October and November, projects that are unlikely to be delivered will be able to withdraw from the register at no cost or a reduced fee.

The ESO said removing stalled projects that are taking up space on the register will allow it to connect other projects more quickly and give it a clearer view of future capacity requirements on the network. It said the initiative is supported by both Ofgem and the transmission owners.

The body said there is also a need to implement more effective queue management arrangements, which is it is seeking to introduce through a modification to the Connection and Use of System Code designated CMP376.

The ESO said the proposed changes, which are subject to approval by Ofgem, will mean projects that are ready to connect can do so ahead of those that have applied earlier but are not reader or able to connect. It said is currently unable to prioritise the queue based on readiness to connect.

The modification would do this by introducing contractual milestones that customers must meet to retain their place in the connection queue.

The ESO said the TEC amnesty and queue management reforms will address short-term challenges for transmission connections and will be complemented by more holistic reforms including:

• A review of construction planning to assumptions to ensure processes are recognisant of the changes in volume of contracted generation and technologies.
• A review of storage modelling to ensure the latest evidence is reflected in how network needs are assessed. The ESO said it will share the conclusion of their latest research into modelling of different types of storage by the end of October.
• Creating regional development plans to unlock more network capacity, reduce constraints and open new revenue streams for market participants.

Julian Leslie, head of Networks at National Grid ESO, said: “We’re here to help build a system of the future that is clean, reliable and fair. We realise that to deliver net zero, we need to free up space on the connections register so that new low carbon projects can connect much more quickly.

“This new initiative will help to address issues developers have faced in securing connections and will save consumers money by streamlining the use of our existing network and reducing the need for additional infrastructure, which can take time and significant investment to deliver.”