In a major push to end the backlog of so-called “zombie projects” holding up the UK’s electricity grid, the Government has announced that grid connections will be prioritised for companies delivering clean energy. Under the new reforms, a wide range of high-impact initiatives — from data centres and artificial intelligence facilities to wind and solar power projects — will be fast-tracked for connection to the grid. 70j5u

This initiative forms a central part of the Government’s Plan for Change, aimed at unlocking investment, securing long-term energy supply, and creating skilled jobs across the country. The reform, led by the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and expected to be confirmed today by Ofgem, will ensure that strategic, shovel-ready projects are no longer stuck behind inactive or speculative developments.

Currently, some businesses face waiting times of up to 15 years to connect to the grid, leaving high-potential companies effectively “gridlocked”. Over the past five years, the grid connection queue has increased tenfold.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband explained the urgency of the reform: “For too long, too many innovative companies have been stuck in an outdated system, unable to access the clean energy they need to grow, innovate and create jobs. This reform is a game changer. We are axing so-called ‘zombie projects’ that clog up the system and giving priority to those ready to deliver homegrown energy and ensure our energy security. This is a bold commitment to sustainable growth and the UK’s energy future.”

Jonathan Brearley, Chief Executive of Ofgem, also welcomed the move: “The proposed grid connection reforms mark a major step forward for Britain’s clean energy ambitions. With a more targeted and efficient approach, we expect to unlock up to £40 billion in annual investment, accelerate the transition to clean and secure energy, and stimulate economic growth. Households, hospitals, EV charging infrastructure, and the tech sector will all benefit from a streamlined, fast-track grid connection process.”

Kayte O’Neill, Chief Operating Officer at NESO, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the reform: “Reforming the connection process is not just a technical necessity — it is a fundamental enabler for delivering Clean Power by 2030. Today’s milestone reflects strong collaboration across the energy industry, with vital from government and Ofgem. By prioritising critical, shovel-ready projects, we can give developers the certainty they need to move forward with confidence.”

Finally, RenewableUK's Director of Future Electricity Systems, Barnaby Wharton said: "We welcome this confirmation of decisive action to remove zombie projects from the massive queue for grid connections. Linking up new clean energy projects to the grid faster is vital to maximise the amount of low-cost clean power we can provide for homes, businesses and factories all over the UK. Grid connection delays of more than a decade mean that we aren't making the most of our exceptionally strong wind resources, especially at sea and in Scotland.

Since July 2024, the UK has seen over £43.7 billion in private investment announced in clean energy, including more than £38 billion in data centre projects alone. However, slow access to the grid has been the single biggest challenge facing these developments.

The new prioritisation system is not only expected to speed up delivery, but also save consumers money. By reducing the need for costly and unnecessary grid reinforcements, the Government estimates billpayers could save up to £5 billion.