Transition to Connections Reform

Connections Reform initiatives

To handle the growing number of contracts and prepare for the upcoming Connections Reform (CMP434/435), we’re introducing two initiatives. 

Transitional Offers: This is designed to help new projects smoothly connect to the main power grid, approved by Ofgem on August 21, 2024.

A pause in Connection Applications: Approved by Ofgem on January 15, 2025, this allows us focus on creating a stable platform for the Gate 2 to Whole Queue process. It is a pause on accepting new connection applications (with some exceptions).

Single track country road through fields photo taken from above

21 May update:

The pause in applications has been extended to 9 June 2025 23:59. This follows Ofgem’s recent announcement approving the Connections Reform proposals with an implementation date of  10 June 2025. This extension will provide clarity as we move into the new process. From 10 June onwards customers are required to follow the new process under the Gated Modification Guidance to submit a Modification Application.

NESO Letter to Ofgem  Ofgem Decision Letter

Transitional Arrangements

Following Ofgem’s decision on 21 August 2024, any new directly connected transmission application starting on and from 2 September 2024, will receive a Transitional Offer (similar to proposed Gate 1 offers as referred to within the Connections Reform Connection and Use of System Code modifications).

You can find further questions and answers about Transitional Arrangements in our Connections FAQ document and by joining our upcoming webinars:

Request to Ofgem letter Ofgem decision letter

Watch our Transitional Arrangements Teach-in covering the offer process and structure

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‘Pause’ in connection applications

Ofgem’s decision for NESO to introduce a pause in applications, subject to exceptions outlined in Ofgem’s decision letter, aims to give customers clear deadlines and supports a single focus on delivering Connections Reform. 

There are three main elements to the pause period as approved by Ofgem: 

  • Transitional Offer Process 

  • Pause in Responding to Other Applications 

  • Exceptions Process 

Find out more information, please see below: 

NESO Letter to Ofgem  Next Steps Letter
Ofgem Decision Letter FAQ Document
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