The UK’s National Energy System Operator (NESO) has alerted regulator Ofgem that it cannot meet connection deadlines for 210 out of 340 “protected” Gate 2 energy projects, all slated to link to the grid by 2027. NESO first raised the alarm in June 2025, blaming a mix of network bottlenecks and developer-side holdups – 75 projects stalled purely by developers, the rest hit by transmission constraints.
Ofgem firmly rejected NESO’s request for relief from these obligations. Instead, it demanded transmission owners (TOs) and NESO propose “the most ambitious date possible” for each delayed project. “It would not be practical, efficient or in consumers’ or developers’ interests to continue with unachievable connection agreements,” Ofgem stated, expressing frustration at the setback for critical net-zero infrastructure.
These Gate 2 projects emerged from last year’s sweeping UK grid reforms, which slashed over 300 GW of capacity from the connections queue. Dubbed “zombie projects” by critics, these were speculative schemes – unready or misaligned with national priorities – that clogged the old first-come, first-served system. The reforms prioritised ready-to-build renewables supporting the government’s Clean Power 2030 target: clean electricity for all by the end of the decade.
Protected slots locked in 2026-2027 connections for top candidates, but experts had cautioned that grid expansion must keep pace. Now, with infrastructure lagging, the logjam persists.
Ofgem’s position highlights a challenging balance: NESO and TOs are being pushed to accelerate delivery, though penalties are not yet in play. Over time, planned reforms should help create a smoother, more efficient queue. For now, however, this period of strain reveals persistent issues – from limited investment in grid infrastructure to bottlenecks in essential upgrades. The success of Clean Power 2030 depends on how quickly these hurdles are addressed, as developers adapt plans and consumers await more secure, affordable energy.
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