New guide helps community energy navigate the grid connections process

Community energy presents an opportunity to accelerate and grow renewable energy in the UK while ensuring that the benefits of new energy infrastructure flow back to the communities where it's located.  

Connecting to the electricity network is a key but complex step in delivering community-owned energy projects. It is essential that organisations are supported through this process, so that it doesn't become a barrier to scaling community energy. This is why National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) has worked with Regen to produce specific guidance for community energy organisations.  

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Community Energy Connections Guidance outlines the NGED connections process from the perspective of community energy projects, highlights the support tools available at each stage and details key technical information that is important to a successful application.

It includes sections on:  

• Initial planning. Setting out the support and tools available to help community energy organisations in the earliest stages of scoping potential projects.
• Pre-application. Includes all of the steps that community energy organisations should be considering prior to submitting the formal application for a connection.
• Submitting an application. Guidance on the application itself, including key technical information required by the NGED connections team.  
• Construction and commissioning. The process of accepting a connections offer and proceeding with the construction and commissioning stage of a project.  
• Engaging with NGED. Information on how community energy organisations can engage with the NGED community energy and connections teams.  

The guide can be found on NGED’s dedicated community energy webpage, which details the support available to groups across its regions.

Regen's commitment to community energy

Community energy projects have a vital role to play in championing the connection of renewables, delivering local demand reduction and advancing local flexibility schemes. These projects bring people closer to the energy system, creating lasting benefits for future generations.

For more than two decades, Regen has played a key role in supporting the community energy sector. By advocating for policy and regulatory change, we have helped remove barriers and create fairer market conditions to enable community-led projects to thrive. If you're interested in finding out more about our work, please contact Grace Millman.

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