Solar Energy UK appreciates the opportunity to respond to the NESO’s call for evidence on the introduction of a Financial Instrument as part of the connections reform process. This issue is highly significant for us, as the current grid challenges are creating substantial obstacles for the solar industry, limiting our ability to deliver clean, affordable energy to both consumers and businesses. Grid constraints are also hindering the Government’s goal of achieving a tripling of solar capacity by 2030 and affecting the UK’s progress towards its Net Zero and Clean Power 2030 targets.
For context, Solar Energy UK actively participates in the Connection Process Advisory Group and the Connections Delivery Board, contributing to the ongoing discussions on connection reform. While we acknowledge the difficulties faced by network operators in connecting projects, it is critical to the UK’s Net Zero ambitions that viable projects are not delayed or blocked. A large portion of our members believe that introducing a financial commitment fee would have this adverse effect, asserting that a well-designed and enforced milestone system is sufficient for demonstrating project readiness and filtering out unviable projects.
Read more in our full response below
Author
Kara Davies
Policy Manager – Economic and Network Regulations
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Policy • Solar Roofs • Welsh Affairs • Market Growth • Tackling Barriers