One thing is clear in the debate around grid reform, improving the connections queue is only part of the challenge. Delivering the UK’s digital infrastructure depends on an effective grid connections system, and Ofgem’s proposed reforms are a welcome step in the right direction, prioritising viable and deliverable projects which chime with the “First ready and needed, first connected” principles.
For too long, speculative applications have made the system harder to plan and slower to deliver. A better connections queue should help the grid work more effectively for investment across digital infrastructure and other growth sectors, while also helping tackle the very significant challenge of decarbonisation.
But as the system is reformed, it is important that the framework distinguishes between speculative applications and credible, long-term digital infrastructure projects and reflects the realities of how these projects are developed.
The UK has a significant opportunity to attract investment in AI, digital infrastructure and wider inward investment. Realising that opportunity depends not only on improving the quality of the connections queue, but on connecting credible projects quickly enough to match investment decisions being made today.
Read the full article from Andrew Pilsworth, Managing Director, Data Centres and Strategic Partnerships at SEGRO.
