The UK system operator National Energy System Operator (NESO) has published an updated schedule for issuing Gate 2 grid connection offers following last year’s connections reform process.
The move comes after NESO and network companies warned in January that confirmation of connection dates would be slower than initially expected due to “technical and engineering matters” identified after queue formation that required further review.
Under the revised timetable, transmission and large-scale embedded connections that were protected for 2026–27 are now expected to receive offers between 13 February and mid-April 2026. Protected distribution offers are scheduled to be issued between early March and the end of May.
For Gate 2 Phase 1, transmission offers are due between mid-May and mid-September, while distribution offers are planned for early July through to mid-November.
Gate 2 Phase 2 transmission schemes are set to receive offers from early September 2026 to mid-January 2027, with Phase 2 distribution offers following between mid-October 2026 and mid-March 2027.
NESO said it recognises the uncertainty developers have faced and pledged better coordination and communication across the industry.
“We recognise that to date there has been considerable uncertainty for customers on the programme and, in particular, when offers should be expected, and we are committed to improving how we communicate and coordinate across the industry,” the operator said.
It added that changes in sequencing mean some locations may receive offers earlier than others depending on engineering complexity and the scale of reassessment required, while maintaining whole-system coordination.
“Across the industry, all partners are aligned behind a single objective: to deliver accurate, timely connection offers and clear, transparent communication throughout the connections reform programme.”
