About Connections Reform

Connections Reform and the Gate 2 to Whole Queue Process

The UK’s energy system is undergoing a fundamental transformation. To achieve the government’s Clean Power 2030 ambition and support the transition to net zero, we must reform the way projects connect to the electricity network. The current connections queue stands at over 770 GW, far exceeding the 200–225 GW of clean generation capacity required by 2030.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO), working closely with the government, Ofgem, Transmission Owners (TOs), Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), and Transmission connected Independent Distribution Network Operators (iDNOs), has introduced Connections Reform to address these challenges. Approved by Ofgem in April 2025, the reform introduces significant changes to the codes and methodologies that govern how projects enter and progress through the connections process. These reforms aim to remove unviable projects from the queue and prioritise those critical to delivering clean power and wider industrial decarbonisation.

Connections Reform places customers and stakeholders at the heart of the process. It creates a simpler, more transparent, and faster way for projects to connect to the grid. A key part of this reform is the introduction of the new Gate 2 to Whole Queue (G2TWQ) process, which ensures that only projects meeting specific readiness and Strategic alignment Criteria progress through the reformed queue.

How to submit evidence to demonstrate readiness and alignment

What are Gate 1 and Gate 2?

As part of the reformed connections process, projects are assessed and assigned a status based on their readiness and Strategic alignment with the UK’s energy goals:

  • Gate 1 applies to projects that do not meet the Gate 2 criteria. These projects will receive a Gate 1 offer or have the option to agree to terminate their connection request. Gate 1 projects will not be assigned a confirmed connection date but may progress through future windows if readiness is demonstrated (references to Gate 1 offers include both 
    Transmission connected and Distribution Gate 1 offers unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Gate 2 applies to projects that meet the new requirements for readiness and Strategic alignment. These projects can secure a confirmed connection date, connection point, and queue position.
What is the Gate 2 to Whole Queue process?

The G2TWQ process is an evidence-based approach that ensures projects are assessed fairly and consistently against the latest Gate 2 criteria and strategic energy plans, including the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan. This process enables NESO, DNOs, and Transmission connected Independent DNOs (iDNOs) to determine which projects are ready to connect and align with the UK’s long-term energy needs.

To progress through the queue, developers must demonstrate both readiness and alignment with one or more strategic criteria. Projects that do not meet these criteria will be offered alternative options, such as a Gate 1 or the option to terminate their existing agreements.