UK Power Networks (UKPN) is allowing connections customers such as renewable energy developers to see how much spare capacity is available at each Grid Supply Point (GSP) for the first time, as well as how many projects are ahead of them in the queue.
The data is available through UKPN’s Open Data Platform, enabling customers to not only view how many projects lie ahead of them in the queue, but also what the projects are and whether there are fast-track flexible connections available. The rationale behind the move is it should allow energy developers to make more informed decisions about when and where to site new projects, paving the way for a more transparent, open connections process and an integrated view with the transmission network.
UKPN Head of Network Strategy, Matt White, said: Customers have called on us to de-mystify the available capacity at the interface with the transmission network and their place in the queue to access it. This is what we’re delivering, putting new datasets based on customer needs on our Open Data Portal. It will drive more targeted and efficient connections decisions for our customers.”
