Although DNOs have been working hard to improve the LCT connections process, as installation numbers increase there is a risk of it becoming a barrier to the uptake of low-carbon technologies – especially heat pumps. Regen believes that wider publication of data would help identify connection issues early, reduce hassle for customers and enable performance benchmarking across DNOs. We have produced a framework for publication of LCT connections data that includes illustrative examples of the insights that could be unlocked. We would like to see DNOs use our proposed framework to support the transparency and improvement of the connections process and the transition to low-carbon homes across the country.
For customers to access the benefits of clean, home-grown energy, distribution network operators (DNOs) in Great Britain will need to connect tens of millions of low-carbon technologies (LCTs) over the next 25 years, including heat pumps, EV charge points and rooftop solar panels.
Key to enabling this is a hassle-free process for connecting new technologies to the low voltage network. This is especially crucial for heat pumps, when delays to installation can result in customers settling for a new fossil fuel boiler rather than risking being left without heating.
Currently, the process of connecting LCTs to the low voltage network varies between DNOs, and installers can face uncertainty and delays. Making data available to track the LCT connection process across DNOs could help identify issues early, minimise hassle and support performance benchmarking across DNOs.
The framework contains illustrative examples of the insights that could be unlocked
Regen has identified four key themes across the LCT installation journey where data publication could support progress towards a smoother connections process:
1. Connections readiness
Property-level data could be used to help customers and installers understand whether a property is ready to connect an LCT, giving a better sense of feasibility, timescale and cost before an application is made. This data could also support DNOs to deliver enabling works in advance of applications, further encouraging uptake.
2. The application process
Data on the time taken by DNOs to respond to applications could give installers and customers an idea of likely timeframes and encourage best practice by highlighting where faster and more consistent application turnarounds are being achieved. Monitoring could also help improve digital application processes and highlight where automatic approvals are or aren’t being implemented.
3. Upgrades and enabling works
Data recording the number and types of works required to connect LCTs, alongside the average and range of times DNOs take to complete them, could guide network planning decisions, inform installer and customer expectations and support the development of improvements.
4. Performance on the overall process
A new measure focused on minor connections would complement Ofgem’s existing monitoring metrics, aiding transparency and benchmarking and reflecting the experiences of LCT installers.
