When the Government published its Clean Power 2030 Action Plan last year, it set out an ambitious direction of travel for the UK’s electricity system. The intention was clear: move faster on renewables, unblock the grid, and remove barriers that were slowing down delivery.
Now, with some distance from the original announcement, the conversation has shifted. The focus is no longer on ambition alone, but on what is actually changing on the ground and how developers should respond.
Grid connections remain one of the biggest challenges. While reforms are underway to prioritise viable projects and clear long-standing backlogs, many schemes are still facing uncertainty around capacity, timescales and cost. The message is becoming increasingly consistent: projects that engage early, understand local constraints and plan utilities at feasibility stage are far better placed to progress.
At the same time, renewable generation continues to grow. Recent offshore wind awards show real momentum in the market, but they also underline a wider issue. New generation is coming forward faster than the infrastructure needed to support it. Without coordinated planning, grid reinforcement and storage, developers risk seeing delays further down the line.
For those delivering housing and commercial schemes, this means utility strategy can no longer be an afterthought. Power, grid access and infrastructure constraints are now fundamental to viability and programme.
At BTS, we work closely with developers to help them interpret policy changes, understand network limitations and plan realistic routes to connection. As the clean power agenda moves from policy into delivery, practical experience and early decision-making will be key to keeping projects moving.
