Ofgem is calling on Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) to follow Western Power Distribution’s lead by squeezing more capacity out of their grids to connect renewables.
The UK energy regulator said in some regions there is little spare network capacity meaning costs and timescales for connection can be extremely high.
Therefore, Ofgem is asking DNOs to speed up connections by finding new ways to link more generators to the existing network.
It said Western Power Distribution has a queue of 7.6GW of generators waiting to connect of which around 4.8GW are solar schemes.
In order to address this demand, WPD is reconfiguring part of its grid so that some of the generators in the queue can get quicker connections.
WPD is also offering to connect some generators but only if they agree to cut output on days of the year when there is the highest demand from other generators to use the grid.
The generators will not receive compensation payments for this, the regulator said.
Ofgem chief executive Dermot Nolan said: “We want DNOs to take creative approaches to speeding up renewable connections.
“They can do this firstly by making best use of their existing grids, as WPD has done.
“We are also calling on DNOs to enable earlier investment in new capacity where necessary using funding in their price controls.”
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