SR Response: Demand Connections Update

Since November 2024, the demand connections queue has seen an exponential increase, predominantly driven by data centres, that far surpasses future demand forecasts. NESO’s Connections Reform process has not yet fully addressed the treatment of strategic demand in a revised queue and Ofgem is now considering options to manage these connections.  

To better understand the makeup of the existing demand queue, NESO has issued a Call for Input (CfI) to all demand customers on key themes, such as project details, connection status, project timelines, financial readiness and project maturity.

In parallel to NESO’s CfI, Ofgem sought views on potential policy levers to manage the growth of the queue. Several options are under consideration including queue management, regulatory reform and prioritising strategic demand. Scottish Renewables' response highlights various considerations when designing the right measures and the need to prioritise demand in Scotland where maximum benefit can be realised in alleviating infrastructure constraints.