The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor

#80 Grid News and Views #17

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Connectologists® Catherine Cleary and Kyle Murchie are joined by Rachael Eynon in her first episode as a Connectologist®, covering the key grid connection developments of February 2026. 

The headline topic is Ofgem's call for input on Demand Reform, closing 13 March. The combined transmission and distribution demand queue reached around 42GW in summer 2024 before rising to roughly 125GW, prompting a pause on new transmission applications. Ofgem's response introduces three pillars: 

  • CURATE - additional financial mechanisms and readiness criteria to filter the Gate 2 demand queue 
    • PLAN - implement a strategic plan for data centres and support existing prioritisation services 
      • CONNECT - exploring asset ownership boundaries, , and whether large demand customers should be able to build higher-voltage assets as generators do 

        • Roadnight Taylor is drafting a proposal for a potential change to licence exemptions under the Electricity Act on asset ownership and will publish insights ahead of the 13 March call for input deadline. 

        The episode also covers: 

        • Transmission delays — 62% of projects with 2026/27 dates are now expected to be delayed, with calls for greater transparency on reinforcement timelines 
          • Gate 2 offers — Phase 1 CPAs have been agreed with the TOs; Phase 2 CPAs are targeted for issue soon 
            • Staged connections — concern that projects with multiple firm stages are being studied against their final stage, risking queue position integrity for projects able to connect now 
              • Technical limits schemes —some Gate 2 offers with technical limits may not be issued until Q1 2027; connecting earlier is possible, but at the developer's own risk 
                • SGT Charging — CMP460 first consultation has closed with a workgroup consultation still to follow; DCP461 second consultation is expected imminently  

                  • Recorded 03 March 2026

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                  The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight TaylorBy Roadnight Taylor