Evidence Handbook
Supporting Connections Reform evidence submission
We're working closely with the Government, Ofgem, Transmission Owners (TOs) and Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) to introduce Connection Reforms. These reforms aim to remove unviable projects from the queue and prioritise those critical to delivering clean power and wider industrial decarbonisation. Connection 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.
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 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.
- 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.
Evidence based approach
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 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 position or the option to terminate their existing agreements.
Purpose of this handbook
This handbook is designed to support project developers and investors in navigating the G2TWQ process. It sets out the evidence required to support a Readiness Declaration and explains how to complete each section of the submission. It also provides guidance on the new methodologies and criteria approved as part of the Connections Reform programme.
By following this handbook, you will understand:
- whether your project is in scope for a Gate 2 offer
- how to provide the necessary evidence of project readiness
- how Strategic Alignment is assessed and what criteria apply
- what happens if your project does not meet the Gate 2 criteria
This handbook will support you through each stage of the process, helping ensure your project can connect to the network efficiently and contribute to delivering the UK’s clean energy future.
The handbook supports customer supplying evidence to both NESO directly and DNOs.
DNOs began evidence for customer gathering on 20th May 2025. If you need to submit details directly to your DNO, please see this useful guide on the ENA's website.
NESO's formal evidence window will open later in the summer.