Policy paper

Improving the grid connection process for electric vehicle charging infrastructure

Published 24 December 2024

Executive summary 

The transition to electric vehicles is critical if we are to meet our net zero goals. To aid this transition, we must ensure that the necessary systems and processes are in place to develop infrastructure at pace. To achieve this, industry stakeholders in both the energy and transport sectors need simplified processes to ensure the timely approval and installation of infrastructure. 

Prior to this transition, stakeholders in these areas rarely had to interact. We are now beginning to see collaboration between the sectors, which has allowed government and industry to deliver over 70,000 public EV chargepoints in the UK and over 680,000 domestic chargepoints in England alone. 

Compared to other sectors, some stakeholders on the transport side are less used to having to navigate the process for securing grid connections at such a significant scale. The increased electrification of transport also presents challenges for distribution network operators (DNOs) as there is increased demand on their processes and resources. Streamlining these processes, ironing out inconsistencies and mapping out future demand is the best way to ensure future rollout is efficient, smooth and delivered on time. 

To achieve this, this document sets out clear action points in which all stakeholders involved in EV charging infrastructure deployment (including central government) can contribute to a better system that works for all.

The government aims to support both the supply and demand for zero emission vehicles by removing the barriers to timely grid expansion. Expanding grid capacity will also allow businesses to install their own charging infrastructure for their fleets more quickly.

This review builds on previous publications, focussing on improving the grid connection process relating to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Engagement process 

The findings and recommendations of this review are the product of stakeholder engagement sessions led by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). Stakeholders included distribution network operators (DNOs), independent distribution network operators (IDNOs), chargepoint operators (CPOs), local authorities (LAs), Ofgem and wider government. 

Vision 

The grid connection process for EV charging infrastructure must enable the transition to EVs.

The aims of this review are to: 

• accelerate the roll-out of EV charging infrastructure to help meet the UK’s Net Zero goals
• increase understanding and knowledge of EV Infrastructure processes for both transport and energy sectors
• build on best practice and processes and apply these to the EV infrastructure sector
• increase collaboration to simplify grid connection processes

Background on grid connections 

EV charging infrastructure needs to be connected to the electricity grid. Alternating current (AC) chargepoints (for example, public on-street chargepoints) require relatively low amounts of power. Direct current (DC) rapid and ultra-rapid chargepoints, such as those found at EV charging hubs and motorway service areas (MSAs), require significantly more power.  

In Great Britain’s energy system, transmission owners (TOs) and distribution network operators (DNOs) play distinct yet interconnected roles in delivering electricity from power generation facilities to consumers.

Transmission owners (TOs) – these companies own, operate, and maintain the transmission network that transports high-voltage electricity across the country. There are 3 TOs in Great Britain.  

Distribution network operators (DNOs) – these companies own, operate, and maintain the regional distribution networks that distribute low-voltage electricity across their regions. There are 6 DNOs.

Independent distribution network operators (IDNOs) share similarities with distribution network operators (DNOs) as they also own, operate and maintain electricity infrastructure. Their networks typically consist of newly installed assets, such as connections for new developments, which are linked to the existing DNO network. 

The key distinction is that IDNOs are not confined to a specific geographic region. While they are regulated by Ofgem in much the same way as DNOs, their licence conditions are slightly modified.

Typically, larger generation and demand projects (the threshold is around 100MW) connect to the transmission network, the network of cables that transport electricity across the country at high voltage, and smaller capacity projects to the distribution network, the local network that provides electricity to homes and businesses at a lower voltage. 

Some projects can be accommodated on either transmission or distribution networks and the different connection processes can influence which network customers choose to connect to. This is particularly the case in Scotland where the 132kV network is classed as ‘transmission’, whereas it is ‘distribution’ in England and Wales.

The different processes and timescales for connections to the transmission and distribution network add complexity when a connection to the distribution network also impacts on the transmission network. In these circumstances, a customer receives a distribution network connection offer which provides a connection date based only on work required on the distribution network. It is caveated that timescales and costs might change once an assessment of transmission requirements is undertaken. Typically, this happens sequentially, so a DNO will apply to the national energy system operator (NESO) only after the customer has accepted the distribution network connection offer.

Grid connections require CPOs to make connection applications to the distribution network operators (DNOs) to connect a chargepoint asset to the electricity network. Where the existing network does not have sufficient capacity for this added electrical load, a network upgrade is required.

CPOs need to navigate the grid connections process for installing EV infrastructure. During the workshop sessions all parties raised barriers in the connections process, which are delaying the roll-out of chargepoints.

Over recent years connections to the electricity grid have increasingly become a barrier to the deployment of EV charging infrastructure. More generally, the electricity network needs to be transformed at an unprecedented scale and pace  to accommodate both new low carbon generation and increasing demand, including from EV charging. There are 2 main elements to this:

• the need to accelerate the development timelines for new electricity network infrastructure
• the need to reform an outdated process for managing connections to the network, which is no longer fit for purpose

In July 2024 the government announced our mission to make Great Britain a clean energy superpower including delivering clean power by 2030 and accelerating to net zero. This added a further impetus to electricity network transformation, including network build and connections.

NESO has provided practical advice on achieving the mission, informing the Clean Power Action Plan. Published on 13 December 2024, the Clean Power Action Plan identifies electricity network transformation as a key enabler for achieving clean power by 2030. It emphasises the need to accelerate infrastructure build and reform the grid connections process. Government is now working with Ofgem and network companies to ensure that network investment and the connections process supports the Clean Power Action Plan. 

The Clean Power Action Plan highlights the importance of a strategically aligned connections process. This approach aims to enhance efficiencies in network design, planning, and construction, providing long-term confidence for investors in renewable energy and all demand sectors reliant on clean energy for electrification.

NESO developed connection reform proposals to ensure that viable projects meeting our strategic needs, including as set out in the Clean Power Action Plan, are able to connect to the grid in time. On 20 December 2024, NESO published their final package of ambitious connections reform actions and submitted it to Ofgem, the energy regulator, for decision.

Timely connections for all demand customers are essential, as growing demand drives the need for renewable generation connections. While the technology pathways in the Clean Power Action Plan will be used to strategically prioritise generation connections, they will not constrain the growth of demand connections, provided NESO ensures system stability and security of supply. Prioritising generation connections and removing excess generation from the queue is expected to accelerate connections for many demand customers, including CPOs.

The NESO and network companies are already releasing network capacity and offering earlier connection dates. As of the end of October 2024, 22GW of improved connection offers had been issued to generation and storage projects across transmission and distribution. Of these, 10.4GW had been accepted, accelerating those projects by 6 years on average. Ofgem’s End to End review consultation, reviewing the connection obligations and incentives pertaining to network companies, looks to further this progress by ensuring that network companies deliver timely connections and high levels of customer service across all regions.

Areas for action 

OZEV has, through a series of workshops, been working with industry, Ofgem and DESNZ to understand the barriers in obtaining a grid connection and the impact of EV charging infrastructure on the grid. 

From this work 7 ‘action areas’ have been identified as follows: 

1. Energisation of chargepoint assets.

2. Increased accessibility and streamlining of the connection offer process.

3. Standing charges.

4. Providing a forward look of investment to DNOs.

5. Land access / wayleaves. 

6. Consenting.

7. Continued monitoring and evaluation.

Within these areas, there are improvements that can be made to benefit all parties. From these action areas, a series of proposed actions are set out. These are to be taken forward by CPOs, IDNOs, DNOs, local authorities and government. 

Action area 1: Energisation of chargepoint assets 

Problem statement 

When a chargepoint is installed, it is connected to the electricity grid. Power to the charging device then needs to be switched on by the local DNO. Energisation occurs after all civil works are completed by the CPO and wider connection/grid reinforcement works have taken place. 

CPOs have raised concerns that when infrastructure installations are completed, they can experience long waits before energisation.  

There are multiple factors determining how long an asset will take to be energised, including, but not limited to, civil works and wider reinforcement works. Once all infrastructure works are completed there should not be administrative delays with energisation. CPOs requested increased transparency on energisation timeframes and for DNOs to provide more information on causes of delays.

What is the impact of the problem? 

Delays in energisation mean chargepoints cannot be used by EV drivers. This may dissuade internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle owners from making the switch to an EV. There is a reputational risk of having chargepoints installed with consumers unable to use them. 

Delays in energisation have financial implications for CPOs. While they are waiting for the asset to be energised, there is no revenue being generated from the chargepoint.  

Recommended policy actions 

Action 1.1 – once a connection offer has been accepted and a timeframe for energisation is provided by the DNO, DNOs to provide clear guidance on next steps and enhance communication with customers, particularly when giving milestone updates on progress toward energisation.   

Within the timescales and milestones DNOs provide in line with the guaranteed standards of performance (GSOP), DNOs to outline/highlight key areas which may lead to delays in energisation – for example, wayleaves, Section 37 consent^{[footnote 1]}.  

(The GSOP stipulate what an electricity distribution network operator must pay to a customer or relevant authority as appropriate if they fail to meet specified standards of performance.)

Expected impact of the policy action

There is a direct impact on the consumers who are waiting for a chargepoint to be available. Improving the process of energisation will help deliver chargepoints at pace, which will benefit all current and prospective EV owners. 

Increased transparency and clarity of process of energisation will positively impact the relationship between CPOs and DNOs. It will also ensure that CPOs know when their assets will be generating revenue.  

Action area 2: Increased accessibility and streamlining of connection offer process 

Problem statement 

There are 14 DNO licensees in Great Britain as well as a range of independent distribution network operators (IDNOs) which own, manage and operate assets. Independent connection providers (ICPs) offer ‘last-mile’ services. This results in variability in the process for gaining a grid connection. Work has taken place to simplify the application process across DNOs but there are still inconsistencies. CPOs and local authorities find the processes complex, especially when dealing with multiple DNOs, if their project crosses DNO borders. 

The Competition in Connections code of practice was developed through the Electricity Networks Association, in consultation with stakeholders, and approved by Ofgem. 

Under the Code of Practice DNOs are required to:  

• reduce the extent to which competitors depend on them for essential services – where the DNO is required to provide these services, it will need to do so on the same basis to both its competitors and its own connections business 
• operate to an Ofgem approved code of practice setting out a common set of rules to enable competitors to access the market and conduct contestable works

Contestable works may include the installation of cables, substations and other plant associated with the new connection. OFGEM encourages competition in areas where it can make a positive difference for customers to enable access, for customers connecting to the network, to fairer prices and better service.

What is the impact of the problem? 

The lack of consistency in the application process has a negative impact on chargepoint delivery. This issue is amplified when working with multiple DNOs for projects delivered across boundaries. CPOs must dedicate resources to learning and navigating different processes for different DNOs. Local authorities investing in chargepoints also experience difficulties funding and developing the required expertise to navigate these processes.  

This has a negative impact on DNOs as a lack of understanding of processes by CPOs and local authorities leads to applications missing necessary information. Furthermore, CPOs and LAs sometimes unwittingly duplicate applications in some areas for the same connection request. This is a result of lack of communication between the LA and CPO, or more rarely, to increase likelihood of making a successful application. This causes a strain on the finite resources of the DNOs to process applications and leads to longer lead times for CPOs and LAs accordingly. 

Recommended policy actions 

Action 2.1 – where essential to CPOs / LAs working on projects across boundaries, DNOs to hold joint, cross-boundary surgeries to simplify the work on these projects.

Action 2.2 – all DNOs to work together through the Energy Networks Association (ENA) to create a single information portal containing weblinks, documentation and other information/checklists relevant and helpful to connection applicants to navigate DNO application processes. Progress monitoring metrics will be implemented in the quarterly review process (action area 7) to ensure implementation.  

ENA to oversee centralisation of guidance via the ENA connection page.    

The information portal should contain process maps and checklists provided by individual DNOs. These should contain information likely to be required in applications.     The portal should also highlight what information should be provided by CPOs to facilitate assessment for DNOs and ensure a quote can be provided (beyond threshold for information required by legislation).

Action 2.3 – where a CPO has provided a budget for the connection offer and the price is likely to be higher, DNOs will provide feedback as to any alternatives where available, preventing wasted time for all parties.

Action 2.4 – checklists on ENA information portal (2.2) to flag DNOs’ offers for connection surgeries as a potentially useful early step in the process. This should be flagged prior to an application form being completed to enable CPOs to explore options and costs, thereby increasing likelihood of a positive outcome.

Action 2.5 – CPOs and LAs to work together to ensure they do not duplicate connection applications.  

Action 2.6 – DNOs to continue to follow the Competitions in Connections code of practice. This includes working with ENA to ensure processes are consistent when connections work is contestable.

Action 2.7 – as standard, DNOs should be offering:  

• connections surgeries (where appropriate) – this allows connection customers and specifically CPOs and other relevant parties, for example motorway service area operators (MSAOs) and local authorities to explore costs and options
• where possible, capacity ramping and curtailable connections to speed up and reduce costs where grid reinforcement timescales could impact larger applications
• open engagement to connection customers such as CPOs and MSAOs if the connection offer is difficult to understand

Expected impact of the policy action

These actions will deliver greater consistency for connection customers when applying for connection requests. At the same time, these changes will reduce resource demands on DNOs through minimised back and forth with applicants allowing connections to be delivered quicker. Reducing costs for all stakeholders and saving time.

Joint surgeries across DNO boundaries would be beneficial to all stakeholders. They would provide DNOs an opportunity to support CPOs and local authorities in navigating grid connection processes. 

According to industry, allowing ICPs to carry out contestable works would reduce delivery time by up to 2 months. This will especially assist industry rolling out infrastructure on the AC charging network.

Action area 3: Standing charges

Problem statement 

Through its Targeted Charging Review (TCR), Ofgem has sought to address what it considers to be inefficiencies and unfairness in the way the residual costs of the electricity network are recovered. These changes have had an effect on the costs being charged to EV chargepoint operators which many feel are disproportionate.

Following consultation, Ofgem announced an ‘in principle’ decision in December 2019, that all users should pay a share of the fixed costs levied on a fixed basis. 

Since 2019, Ofgem worked on the detail of the changes and consulted further with interested parties, with full implementation in April 2023. The outcome is that the fixed charge is segmented with 21 different bands ranging from domestic consumers to the largest transmission-connected industrial users.

What is the impact of the problem? 

As a result of these changes, standing charges for EV charging infrastructure have significantly increased. The TCR was not a review targeting EV charging sites, but was a regulatory review completed at a national level across all industries. However, the increased costs it has imposed have impacted the viability of large EV charging sites. Rather than EV charging sites paying certain network costs based on power usage, sites are now charged for installed power capacity. Industry may perceive this as being penalised for investing in infrastructure ahead of customer demand.  

Recommended policy actions 

Action 3.1 – CPOs to feed into a code modification working group to reduce the burden of standing charges on EV infrastructure connection customers.

Action 3.2 – DNOs to provide information on the ENA information portal on how standing charges are applied and where that information can be found (including guidance on which tariff might be applicable).

Expected impact of the policy action

Ofgem have established an industry-led code modification working group considering the standing charges issue directly. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and OZEV have ensured the right stakeholders are included. The group published a consultation on their proposed actions, which closed on 29 October 2024. Following the analysis of the responses, the group will create a shortlist of options and issue a second consultation presenting the shortlisted options and further details on these. Once the consultation process is completed, the working group will make their recommendations to Ofgem.

Action 3.2 will help the chargepoint industry better understand the likely standing charges, enabling more informed consideration of potential sites.

Action area 4: Providing forward look of investment to DNOs 

Problem statement 

DNOs are responsible for network upgrades to support the roll out of EV charging infrastructure. They need to invest ahead of need, to ensure the electricity network is ready for the transition to EVs.  

DNOs need to know where these chargepoints are planned. When provided with this information, they can ready the network.  

CPOs install chargepoints on behalf of local authorities in some instances, but they also have long-term strategies of the areas in which they expect to install chargepoints. By sharing information with DNOs, DNOs can better invest in the electrical distribution network ahead of need. DNOs have stated they do not need a granular level of detail on chargepoint location but a general understanding of areas where installations are likely and approximate capacity needed. They can ensure that projects scheduled for 5 to 10 years’ time will have a local electricity network capable of supporting the infrastructure, with minimal enabling work required.  

Government can support DNOs in this area, by providing data on relevant grant funding available for the roll-out of EV infrastructure. This includes the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund. 

What is the impact of the problem? 

Short notice connection applications result in an inefficiently planned network, higher costs to bill payers (who fund DNOs) and connection delays to customers.

Recommended policy actions 

Action 4.1 – local authorities and CPOs to a provide forward look for planned investment for at least the next 24 months to DNOs, and longer if possible. 

LAs and CPOs to provide DNOs with a list of sites in the pipeline for the next 24 months. These lists should be submitted at least every 6 months and include data categories previously agreed with DNOs (for example, potential locations, stage of procurement, types of chargers).

Action 4.2 – as required to receive LEVI funding, government to remind local authorities to provide DNOs with planned investment for LEVI projects. 

Expected impact of the policy action

The benefit to DNOs of having this data is clear, they can invest ahead of need and schedule essential investment in the right area, at the right time. CPOs will also benefit as they will see a network that is more ready for their commercial strategies. This in turn will support the end consumer needing EV chargepoints in their local area. Where CPOs change their plans, this also needs to be communicated to DNOs at the earliest opportunity.

In the short term, government will likely be able to support DNOs with data due to current investment through the LEVI fund. However, LEVI projects will be primarily AC charging and are less likely to need large network reinforcement seen in large scale rapid (DC) charging projects. In the longer term, as the EV charging sector matures and government support is less required, CPOs need to ensure that they share their planned project locations with DNOs. This will allow the continued roll out of chargepoints at the required pace. 

Ofgem has consulted on regional energy strategic planners (RESPs) to improve local energy planning. Subject to Ofgem’s consultation response, RESPs will create clear plans for how local energy systems need to be developed, considering both the national targets and the local needs, such as EV chargepoint deployment, and the most appropriate approach to building the electricity network in each region. This should enable the network to be built strategically ahead of need, using information from developers, such as CPOs’ investment plans.

Action area 5: Land access / wayleaves 

Problem statement 

A wayleave is a contractual agreement between a landowner or landlord and DNO.

The landowner/landlord grants the DNO a licence with the right to access land and/or property, to install and/or maintain electricity network apparatus. Wayleaves are commonly used for the deployment of EV charging infrastructure. 

The government has made it a priority to review current processes, and consider whether they are fit to facilitate our net zero goals and energy security transformation. A majority of respondents to the call for evidence had a negative experience with the land rights and consents processes and believe reform is necessary. Government agrees that changes are required to the land rights and consents process, particularly given the additional infrastructure that will need to be developed in the coming years.

The wayleave process and conditions around associated leases were also not made with EV charging infrastructure in mind. This means lease agreements and wayleaves often are agreed with terms that are either not necessary or overly onerous, causing delays.

A call for evidence was published in August 2022 seeking views on land rights and consent processes for electricity network infrastructure. A summary of responses received to the call for evidence was published in December 2024. This comprised policy measures proposed by government to implement varying levels of reform.  

What is the impact of the problem? 

The wayleaves process was not designed for EV infrastructure, meaning wayleaves may contain agreed terms that are onerous for CPOs to navigate. Wayleaves and lease terms can often add significant timescales for the installation of EV infrastructure. 

There is a considerable financial impact for CPOs and DNOs in attempting to gain land access. Landowners may require DNOs to pay sizeable fees in return for such access. These costs may be passed on to CPOs who are further impacted by extensive delays to their projects as they are unable to progress until land right access is granted.

Recommended policy actions 

Action 5.1 – government will implement measures outlined in the summary of responses received to the call for evidence on land rights and consents for electricity network infrastructure.

Action 5.2 – government has established a Land Rights working group including network operators and landowners. The group will consider what further changes could be made to the land purchase and wayleave processes, to support accelerating the delivery of network infrastructure.  

Action 5.3 – DNOs and CPOs to explore alternatives to wayleaves processes. For example, whether access agreements could be accepted instead of wayleaves or the acceptance of precedent lease forms for substation leases. DNOs and government to also consider updates to guidance on land rights/consents to comprise alternatives to wayleaves. ENA to act as a convener and explore alternatives to wayleaves / land rights processes with DNOs.

Action 5.4 – the Central Association for Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) aim to finalise a draft memorandum of understanding and obtain a range of signatories from affected parties by the end of Q1 2025. The document aims to clarify and standardise the expected behaviours of all parties involved in acquiring land rights.

Expected impact of the policy action

DESNZ will update the guidance on statutory land rights processes. This will:

• clarify the roles and responsibilities for each party
• increase transparency of process for landowners
• ensure consistency of engagement for stakeholders

Government has also committed to set up a working group to support the delivery of reforms to the wayleaves process, such as those being intended to be consulted on in 2025. This met on 13 November 2024.

Resolving wayleave and lease terms issues to ensure they are more appropriate for EV infrastructure will reduce timeframes for the installation of infrastructure.

The code of practice being published by the Central Association for Agricultural Valuers will make use of industry expertise to improve voluntary negotiations, reduce timelines for agreements, reduce the likelihood of disputes and therefore of parties engaging in statutory processes.

Action area 6: Consenting

Problem statement 

Responses to the call for evidence on land rights and consent processes for electricity network infrastructure flagged that the process for securing Section 37 consents can cause delays in some cases. These are required for overhead lines for electricity network infrastructure development that provides the power for EV chargepoints. This is mostly due to the requirement to acquire land rights before making an S37 application.

Concerns regarding local planning authorities’ lack of familiarity with the process and lack of resources were also raised. Currently, where necessary wayleaves have not been secured, the Secretary of State can pause the application process until wayleaves are agreed or until they give permission.

What is the impact of the problem? 

The responses to the call for evidence on land rights and consents indicate that the current consenting process is not fit for purpose to deliver net zero. The procedures and policies in place to maintain and install network infrastructure are not clearly understood and can be costly and time consuming for all parties. This is leading to delays and in some cases is preventing projects from going ahead.

Recommended policy actions 

Action 6.1 – simplify and improve the S37 consents process by updating existing guidance clarifying the application process and consulting on further changes.  

Expected impact of the policy action

Government will update existing guidance on S37 consents which will clarify the application process, as well as the roles and responsibilities of relevant parties. Government has announced that it will consult on reforming certain electricity network planning and consenting processes. This will include considering whether the exemptions for when Section 37 consent is required are still appropriate and facilitate government’s ambitious targets for clean power by 2030 and for net zero by 2050.

Government has already implemented a new process for low-risk applications and enhancements to the on-line portal, which have significantly improved performance. As DESNZ will also consult on further measures to reform the S37 consents process, the application process will likewise be monitored to ensure it continues to be fit for purpose.

Action area 7: Continued monitoring and evaluation 

Problem statement 

To ensure this review, and the identified actions, are followed up, it is important to monitor and evaluate progress. This will help assess what actions have been delivered and where more can be done. This continued work between DNOs, CPOs and government will help embed stronger collaborative working and improve the grid connections process. 

Actions 

Action 7.1 – all parties committing to quarterly reviews, check in dates and progress indicators. Opportunities will be provided for stakeholders to identify any further barriers to EV infrastructure roll-out and collaborative actions to mitigate such concerns. 

Action 7.2 – government to monitor the effectiveness of the proposed actions, review the changes after 12 months and determine whether further measures are needed.

Expected impact of the policy action

Increased collaboration will harness positive working relationships between all key stakeholders with mutual understanding of progress and any emerging issues as chargepoint rollout accelerates. 

Summary table of actions

The actions proposed with CPOs and DNOs can be seen in table 1. These actions were reached following workshops with key stakeholders carried out over several months. 

Table 1 – actions proposed by DNOs, CPOs and government

Identified Issue	Action	Lead	Date of introduction (estimated – subject to change)
Action area 1 – chargepoints being in the ground but not energised causes delays for infrastructure being used. This action aims to reduce instances of infrastructure being in the ground but not energised. Improving the ability of CPOs to meet their Net Zero goals.	(1.1) Once a connection offer has been accepted and a timeframe for energisation is provided by the DNO, DNOs to provide clear guidance on next steps and enhance communication with customers, particularly when giving milestone updates on progress toward energisation.  Within the timescales and milestones DNOs provide in line with the GSOP, DNOs to outline/highlight key areas which may lead to delays in energisation (for example, wayleaves, S37 consent).	DNOs	Q2 2025
Action area 2 (2.1) – sometimes local authorities and CPOs are operating across DNO boundaries and need approvals from multiple DNOs – complicating and slowing the process.	(2.1) Where essential to CPOs / local authorities working on projects across boundaries, DNOs to hold joint, cross-boundary surgeries to simplify the work on these projects.	DNOs	Q2 2025
Action area 2 (2.2) – all parties want to have all the necessary information when submitting a connection application. Currently, there are situations where the CPO/local authority are unclear on the information they need to provide. This slows connection offers due to delays in receiving necessary information.	(2.2) All DNOs to work together through ENA to create a single information portal containing weblinks, documentation and other information / checklists relevant and helpful to connection applicants to navigate DNO application processes. Progress monitoring metrics will be implemented in the quarterly review process (action area 7) to ensure implementation. ENA to oversee centralisation of guidance via the ENA connection page.  The information portal should contain process maps and checklists provided by individual DNOs. These should contain information likely to be required in applications. The portal should also highlight what information should be provided by CPOs to facilitate assessment for DNOs and ensure a quote can be provided (beyond threshold for information required by legislation).	DNOs	Q3 2025
Action area 2 (2.3 to 2.4) – when a connection offer has been made to CPOs, it may not be viable for their project. In these instances, they require DNOs to provide potential alternative connections that may make a project viable.	(2.3) Where a CPO provides a budget for the connection offer and the price is likely to be higher, DNOs will provide feedback as to any alternatives where available, preventing wasted time for all parties.   (2.4) Checklists on ENA information portal (2.2) to flag DNOs’ offers for connection surgeries as a potentially useful early step in the process. This should be flagged prior to an application form being completed to enable CPOs to explore options and costs, thereby increasing likelihood of a positive outcome.	DNOs	Q3 2025
Action area 2 (2.5) – duplicated applications by CPOs for different power levels at the same location increases strain on DNO resources to make connection offers. Duplicated application from local authorities, where the CPO has already made application adds to this strain.	(2.5) CPOs and local authorities to work together to ensure they do not duplicate connection applications.	LAs, CPOs and MSAOs	Immediate
Action area 2 (2.6) – UKPN allow ICPs to carry out the design work for chargepoint installations, whilst other DNOs do not. Allowing ICPs to carry out design work has been quoted by industry as saving up to 2 months on delivery times for AC chargepoints.  There is a need for greater consistency and agreement on allowing ICPs to carry out this work.	(2.6) DNOs to continue to follow the Competitions in Connections code of practice. This includes working with ENA to ensure processes are consistent when connections work is contestable.	DNOs	Ongoing
Action area 2 (2.7) – DNOs should guide connection customers through their processes and provide these minimum levels of support as appropriate.	(2.7) – as standard, DNOs should be offering:  - connections surgeries (where appropriate) – this allows connection customers and specifically CPOs and other relevant parties, for example motorway service area operators (MSAOs) and local authorities to explore costs and options - where possible, capacity ramping and curtailable connections to speed up and reduce costs where grid reinforcement timescales could impact larger applications - open engagement to connection customers such as CPOs and MSAOs if the connection offer is difficult to understand	DNOs	Immediate
Action area 3 – targeted charging review (TCR) aimed to reduce unfairness in network costs. The outcome was the fixed charge was segmented for different categories of network user and raised costs dramatically for EV infrastructure projects. Often, CPOs do not know the costs of the standing charges until after their project is delivered. This hampers assessment of commercial viability of sites.	(3.1) CPOs to feed into code modification working group to reduce the burden of Standing charges on EV infrastructure connection customers. (3.2) DNOs to provide information on the ENA information portal on how standing charges are applied and where that information can be found (including guidance on which tariff might be applicable).	CPOs / DNOs	Ongoing / 3.2 – Q3 2025
Action area 4 (4.1) – DNOs need to know plans for investment, so they can invest ahead of need. Local authorities and CPOs need to provide plans of where they intend to install charging infrastructure.	(4.1) Local authorities and CPOs to a provide forward look for planned investment for at least the next 24 months to DNOs, and longer if possible.	CPOs and local authorities	Q2 2025
Action area 4 (4.2) – DNOs need to know plans for investment, so they can invest ahead of need. Government funding packages such as LEVI can provide DNOs with certainty of where investment is expected. Local authorities are required to provide this information to DNOs.	(4.2) Government to remind local authorities to provide DNOs with planned investment for LEVI projects.	OZEV	Q1 2025
Action area 5 (5.1) – the wayleave process and conditions around associated leases are not tailored to EV charging infrastructure, meaning agreements contain terms which are unnecessary or overly onerous.	(5.1) Government will implement measures outlined in the summary of responses received to the call for evidence on land rights and consents for electricity network infrastructure.	DESNZ	Ongoing
Action area 5 (5.2) – wayleave current term of 15 years does not provide sufficient security.	(5.2) Government has established a land rights working group including network operators and land owners. The group will consider what further changes could be made to the land purchase and wayleave processes, to support accelerating the delivery of network infrastructure.	Central government	Ongoing
Action area 5 (5.3) – wayleaves process overly burdensome for both CPOs and DNOs. Industry put forward cost and time-saving alternatives but further guidance and clarification on uses are required.	(5.3) DNOs and CPOs to explore alternatives to wayleaves processes (for example, whether access agreements could be accepted instead of wayleaves, acceptance of precedent lease forms for substation leases). DNOs and government to also consider updates to guidance on land rights/consents to comprise alternatives to wayleaves. ENA to act as a convener and explore alternatives to wayleaves/land rights processes with DNOs.	DNOs and CPOs	Ongoing
Action area 5 (5.4) – there is a lack of understanding of approach and lack of transparency of information made available. Consistency of process within DNOs (for example, process enhancements such as identifying precedent leases to be used as templates) would avoid renegotiation of terms for the same type of project and save time and resources, especially in legal fees.	(5.4) The Central Association for Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) aim to finalise a draft memorandum of understanding and obtain a range of signatories from affected parties by the end of Q1 2025. The document aims to clarify and standardise the expected behaviours of all parties involved in acquiring land rights.	DESNZ	End of Q1 2025
Action area 6 (6.1) – there are long timescales associated with obtaining land rights and consents due to linear process.	(6.1) Simplify and improve the S37 consents process by updating existing guidance clarifying the application process and consulting on further changes.	Central government	To be confirmed
Action area 7 – the energy and transport sectors previously have had little need to regularly collaborate. They operate separate systems that now need to be increasingly joined up. To ensure recommendations are taken forward, this needs to continue in a formalised way.	(7.1) All parties committing to quarterly review dates and progress indicators. (7.2) Government to monitor the effectiveness of the proposed actions, review the changes after 12 months, and determine whether further measures are needed.	All parties.	Q1 2025

Next steps 

Government will continue to monitor progress to ensure that progress is made; new issues identified are resolved, and collaborative working is being embedded. Government will continue to consider if further policy intervention is required where issues in the grid connection process remain. 

Expectations 

These proposed actions signal significant buy-in from CPOs and DNOs to see the process for grid connections improve. The overall expectation is that these changes will assist in the roll-out of EV chargepoints across the country, and in streamlining the grid connection process for EV chargepoints, enabling the faster electrification of transport.

1. Section 37 (overhead lines) of the Electricity Act 1989 takes into account the views of the local planning authority, local people, statutory bodies (such as the Environment Agency), and other interested parties. All applications go through the local planning authority and appear on the local planning register. In some cases, there may be a public inquiry before the Secretary of State makes a decision, usually as a consequence of an objection being received from the local planning authority. ↩