“Radical” reform of the process allowing new energy facilities to connect to the grid has been announced by regulator Ofgem.

The new connections system, which could be in place in spring 2025, would end the first-come, first-served system where clean energy generation or storage projects sometimes have to wait years before being allowed to connect.

The new proposals will see connections fast-tracked if they can be operational quickly and contribute to the government’s plan to decarbonise the UK’s energy system by 2030. This new system – which prioritises projects that are “ready” and “needed” – would see accelerated offers made by the end of the year, with the first connected and operational from 2026. 

The UK is building huge amounts of new renewable energy facilities, led by a series of major wind power projects that are ultimately designed to wean the network off fossil fuels entirely.

The government’s Clean Power Action Plan requires current capacity on the grid to double within five...