In recent months, the government has announced a number of new measures aimed at tackling one of the biggest barriers to housing and infrastructure delivery: the UK’s slow and overstretched electricity connection process.
With waiting times for some developments stretching well beyond 2030, the policymakers are promising reforms. The Energy Networks Association and Ofgem are working with distribution network operators to fast-track viable projects and clear the backlog. Proposals include a new “first ready, first connected” system, improved transparency in terms of grid capacity, and a simplified approvals process for battery storage and renewable schemes.
On paper, this looks like good news. But in practice, many developers are still grappling with uncertainty. The scale of the challenge is vast: we’re facing ageing infrastructure and competing regional priorities, and the pace of delivery will depend heavily on how the new policies are implemented locally.
At BTS, we’re seeing both sides of the story. While the government’s intentions are positive, progress on the ground remains patchy. Developers are still facing inconsistent timelines, opaque communication, and rising costs linked to reinforcement works.
For these reasons, we strongly recommend early engagement with distribution network operators. Understanding where the grid has capacity, aligning applications with realistic connection dates, and negotiating effectively with network operators can make the difference between a viable project and a stalled one.
If the UK is serious about accelerating housing delivery and hitting clean energy targets, grid reform will need to move from policy to practical change because for many developers, time really is the limiting factor.
