The UK Government has announced plans to fast-track grid connections for renewable energy projects, including wind and solar power, as part of its 2030 Plan for Change initiative. The proposed bill will prioritise new transmission infrastructure for renewables to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

Under the proposal, decisions on onshore and offshore wind, solar power, electricity grids, hydrogen, carbon capture and nuclear power plants would be expedited. The bill is expected to unlock GBP200bn (€237bn) in investment and protect UK households from volatile fossil fuel markets.

According to the UK Government, projects currently face delays of up to ten years due to an outdated “first come, first served” process. The government plans to replace this with a “first ready, first connected” system to streamline infrastructure delivery, reduce planning delays and ensure energy security.