Roadnight Taylor - Podcast Details

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The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#63 Questioning the caps and SSEP transparency with Ed Birkett, New Projects Director, Low CarbonThe UK’s grid is at breaking point. Thousands of energy projects are stuck in the queue, and many may never get built. In this episode of the Connectology® podcast, Ed Birkett from Low Carbon joins Kyle Murchie and Catherine Cleary to explain what’s going wrong—and what needs to change. Together, they dive into the challenges facing the UK’s grid connection process, from overloaded queues to “zombie projects” that block real progress. Key topics discussed includes: • Why the grid queue is five times bigger than it needs to be • The risks o...2025-07-1641 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#62 Super Grid Transformer Charging - #2 the full versionSuper Grid Transformer (SGT) charging remains a critical but unresolved issue in the energy sector. The focus on Connections Reform meant progress on SGT charging stalled. Now that Connections Reform is taking shape, it’s time to turn attention back to this challenge. To help move the conversation forward, we brought together a range of industry voices —Innova, Octopus Energy Generation, Centrica and Diageo — for a round-table discussion. Kyle Murchie and Pete Aston then spoke one-on-one with each participant about their experiences and ideas for solutions. This longer podcast captures those in-depth conversations. If you’re looki...2025-07-071h 03

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#61 Super Grid Transformer Charging - #1 the highlightsSuper Grid Transformer (SGT) has been a hot topic for some time (indeed Roadnight Taylor issued an open letter to Ofgem in 2023) but the issue remains unresolved with progress stalled as the industry focused on delivering Connections Reform. With key aspects of that reform now in place, attention can return to SGT charging — an area that has seen little movement compared to other code modifications already underway. There’s growing recognition that this gap needs addressing, especially as Ofgem and network operators are beginning to show renewed interest and propose solutions — though often from specific standpoints. As the is...2025-07-0727 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#59 NESO's essentials for Gate 2 evidence success - Guest Series with Matt Vickers, Director of Connections Reform, NESORoadnight Taylor is delighted to welcome Matt Vickers, Director of Connections Reform at NESO, to this episode of the Connectology ® podcast! Matt shares his experience from leading one of the biggest overhauls in the UK energy sector—fixing a broken grid connections system and tackling a huge project queue. With his background as an energy ombudsman, he brings a fresh perspective on the challenges and urgency of making change happen. In this episode, Matt and the Connectologists® discuss: Why the current system needs reform What developers often get wrong in their submissions How NESO is h...2025-07-0335 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#60 Grid News and Views - Episode 12In this episode of the Connectology® podcast, Connectologists® Pete Aston, Catherine Cleary, and Nikki Pillinger unpack the latest developments in grid connections, Gate 2 timelines, and ongoing industry reforms. With some DNOs now issuing grid variation offers with just 10–14 days to accept, developers are facing serious time pressure—especially when terms are unclear or revised. The team explores when and how it may be possible to push for more time and why being prepared matters more than ever. They also run through key Gate 2 milestones: • Application window: 8–29 July • NESO decisions expected in September 2025-07-0325 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#58 Grid News and Views - Episode 11In this episode of the Connectology® podcast, Connectologists® Pete Aston, Philip Bale, and Kyle Murchie break down the latest on Connections Reform—especially what it means for developers navigating Gate 2 applications. The podcast discusses: Why Gate 2 matters: If your project won’t connect before July 2025, you must submit a Gate 2 application to avoid slipping back to Gate 1. Transmission vs. DNO offers: They’re not the same—understand how they differ and what that means for your project. Watch out for variations: Some DNO offer changes may include unexpected clauses or outdated cost info. Don’t miss your milesto...2025-06-1820 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#57 Project Commitment Fee - Guest Series with Alex Ikonic, Grid Engineer, ØrstedThis episode of the Connectology® podcast dives into the evolving Project Commitment Fee (PCF) with special guest Alex Ikonic, Grid Engineer at Ørsted, who brings insights from the CMP448 CUSC work group. The PCF—originally proposed by NESO as a £20,000/MW bond—has been revised to a phased fee starting at £2,500/MW, rising to £10,000/MW, and triggered only if 6 GW of post-Gate 2 generation projects are terminated. The discussion highlights: Who the PCF applies too How termination or tech downsizing would result in partial or full fee loss How self-termination discounts are being explored Key risks, including rushed, l...2025-06-1020 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#56 Distribution, milestone, intolerance and a green light for smaller projectsIn this episode of the Connectology® podcast, Connectologists® Kyle Murchie and Pete Aston break down two major updates that could change the game for energy developers. First up: CMP446. Ofgem has approved a big shift—raising the Transmission Impact Assessment (TIA) threshold in England and Wales from 1MW to 5MW (based on export capacity). That means fewer small and mid-sized projects need to go through the slow and complex TIA process. It’s great news for community energy schemes and demand-heavy sites—but Scotland is left out, with the threshold still set at 200kW. Then, we dive...2025-05-3018 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#55 How should EREP130 be applied to storage projects?In this episode, Connectologists® Philip Bale and Pete Aston dive deep into Engineering Recommendation EREP130, specifically focusing on its application to embedded battery storage connections under technical limits scenarios. They explore whether it's appropriate for DNOs to enforce EREP130 clauses when offering early connections under Technical Limits, and what this means for customers. 🧠 Key Topics: The origin and intent behind EREP130 and how it evolved to handle battery storage. How treating batteries as non-firm demand helps avoid costly and unnecessary network reinforcements. The controversial application of EREP130 clauses in variations of previously accepted schemes. The implications for...2025-05-0716 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#54 The Connectologists'® Top 10 Grid Connection TipsWhich Connection Tips Will Make the Connectologists'® Top 10? Getting your project connected to the grid is no easy feat—but what are the most essential tips to maximise success? In our latest podcast, Connectologists® Catherine Cleary, Philip Bale, Nikki Pillinger, Kyle Murchie, and Pete Aston battle it out to decide the ultimate Top 10 Grid Connection Tips. Each Connectologist® has come prepared with their own must-know strategies, but only 10 can make the final cut! What's up for debate? G99/G98 applications Engaging with DNOs early vs. waiting until later stages—what’s the best approach? Meticulous...2025-04-0947 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#53 Exploring Grid Code Change GC0117GC0117 refers to a Grid Code change proposal, initially raised back in June 2018, aimed at improving transparency and consistency of access arrangements for generation and storage connections across Great Britain by creating a common set of requirements. Specifically, the proposal seeks to reduce the existing three thresholds of Small, Medium and Large generators to two, defining Large Power Stations as those with a Registered Capacity of 10MW and above, and Small Power Stations as those below 10MW. Thus, the Medium category would be removed in England and Wales. Ofgem have opened a consultation on their minded to...2025-04-0325 min

The Standing Apart Podcast#10 - How to create a great business within the energy sector - pt2Standing Apart, hosted by Nigel Ridpath, focuses on the theme of differentiation - both personally and in a business sense. Episode 10 is part 2 of an interview with Hugh Taylor from Roadnight Taylor. We discuss the energy sector that is the business focus, but also the purposefulness with which Hugh leads the organisation. You can find the Roadnight Taylor flywheel here. Here is Hugh's reading list: Good to Great - Jim Collins Influence- Robert Cialdini Bounce- Matt Syed Radical Candor- Kim Scott Hyperfocus- Chris Bailey Humanocracy- Gary Hemel Think Again- Adam Grant No Ru...2025-03-3133 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#52 Guest Series with Amanda Le Brocq, Director of Connections, NGED; and Sarah Jeffery and Mark Baker, Head of Strategic Customer Engagement, NGEDThe energy sector is evolving rapidly, and grid Connection Reforms, customer engagement, and community energy are at the forefront of change. In this episode, we are joined by special guests Amanda Le Brocq, Sarah Jeffery and Mark Baker from National Grid Electricity Distribution to explore: 🔹New Careers, New Insights – How diverse backgrounds are improving customer engagement, community energy, and grid connections. 🔹Connections Reform – The major changes reshaping how projects connect to the grid and what it means for customers. 🔹 Customer Engagement – How better communication, digital tools, and transparency are improving the connection process. 🔹 Community Energy –...2025-03-2641 min

The Standing Apart Podcast#9 - How to create a great business within the energy sector - pt1Standing Apart, hosted by Nigel Ridpath, focuses on the theme of differentiation - both personally and in a business sense. Episode 9 is part 1 of an interview with Hugh Taylor from Roadnight Taylor. We discuss the energy sector that is the business focus, but also the purposefulness with which Hugh leads the organisation. Here is Hugh's reading list: Good to Great - Jim Collins Influence- Robert Cialdini Bounce- Matt Syed Radical Candor- Kim Scott Hyperfocus- Chris Bailey Humanocracy- Gary Hemel Think Again- Adam Grant No Rules Rules- Reed Hastings & Erin Meyer The Win Without Pitch Ma...2025-03-1741 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#51 Grid News and Views - Episode 10Join Connectologist® Pete Aston, Catherine Cleary, Philip Bale, and Nikki Pillinger for an in-depth discussion on the evolving UK grid landscape in our latest podcast. This episode unpacks the latest developments affecting Clean Power 2030 and how they impact grid connections, project viability, and market dynamics. Key topics discussed include: • Clean Power 2030 – Key updates on regulatory changes, timeframes, and how they impact grid connections. • Security Freezes and Financial Instruments – NESO’s freeze on securities of cancellation charge liabilities and the impact of this on contracted and embedded customers • CUSC Mods– The latest on CMP446, the potential i...2025-02-1334 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#50 Guest Series with Susan McDonald, UK Energy Transition Lead, Net Zero Transformation, DeloitteJoin Connectologist® Kyle Murchie and special guest Susan McDonald, UK Energy Transition Lead for Net Zero Transformation at Deloitte, as they delve into the future of the UK energy sector. This episode unpacks the ambitious Clean Power Plan for 2030, examines the challenges of rapidly expanding infrastructure, and highlights the UK's leadership in offshore wind energy. Topics Discussed: Infrastructure Development - The energy sector faces the challenge of doubling its infrastructure within five years. - The UK leads in offshore wind and clean power, with strong potential for global impact. - Prioritising comm...2025-01-2043 min

TransmissionGrid connections and connections reform with Catherine Cleary and Joe ColebrookConnecting renewable projects to the grid is often a technical and administrative labyrinth, with long wait times for connection approval and the deadline of clean power by 2030 fast approaching - time is of the essence. Today we explore the challenges of integrating projects, from local distribution networks to large-scale transmission systems, and highlights the pivotal role of reforms and collaboration in ensuring the UK meets its energy goals.Catherine Cleary, Specialist Connections Engineer at Roadnight Taylor and Joe Colebrook Head of Grid Connections at Innova join Ed Porter for today’s episode. Over the course of the co...2025-01-1649 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#49 Guest series with Alasdair MacMillian, Policy Lead - Electricity Connections, OfgemWe are delighted that Alasdair (Ali) MacMillan, Policy Lead of Electricity Connections at Ofgem joined Connectologists® Catherine Cleary and Kyle Murchie for our latest podcast. This episode delves into the complexities of Connections Reform in Great Britain, specifically focusing on the end-to-end review of the grid connection process. The discussion highlights concerns about the current system, including long queues, potential unfairness for distribution customers, and the need for improved data transparency and communication. Key takeaways include the importance of: Balancing speed and thoroughness: ensuring a robust reform process while maintaining the urgency o...2024-12-1755 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#48 Guest series with Merlin Hyman, Chief Executive, Regen and Joe Colebrook, Head of Grid Connections, InnovaJoin Connectologists® Pete Aston and Nikki Pillinger as they welcome two special guests: Merlin Hyman, Chief Executive of Regen, and Joe Colebrook, Head of Grid Connections at Innova. Together, they dive into the complexities of Grid Connections Reform and what it means for developers, policymakers, and the entire industry. Key topics discussed include: Connection Process Changes – they discuss the complexities and uncertainties of Connections Reform, including queue reshuffling and new criteria for readiness and strategic alignment. This introduces the uncertainty for developers and the challenges which they face, including supply chain delays, planning uncertainties, and the...2024-11-2745 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#47 Connections Reform Webinar Update #3: Questions and Answers During our Connections Reform Update #3 webinar, we had so many questions from over 200 delegates that we didn't have time to answer them all. We have picked out some main themes from the questions and on this podcast, two of our Connectologists® Kyle Murchie and Pete Aston help to shed light on those themes. Themes covered include: What are the key methodologies and their implications? How does the Clean Power 2030 (CP30) plan integrate with the Connections Reform? How does Connections Reform affect existing projects (in-flight projects)? What are the implications of Connections Reform for embedded generation and...2024-11-2656 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#46 The Big Reshuffle QuestionShould the reforming of the GB grid queue under Connections Reform Connections Network Design Methodology utilise the distribution offer acceptance date for D projects - or the date of the DNO's Mod Offer acceptance? This is a highly complex and nuanced area – and with some 7,000 applicable projects, it is highly contentious too. With NESO’s consultation on the CNDM closing on 2 December 2024, Connectologists® Catherine Cleary and Pete Aston debate the two sides of the argument. Recorded 20 November 2024 Our links: Request a copy of the webinar we refe...2024-11-2147 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#45 The impact of the transmission network on distribution demand applicationsIn our latest podcast, the Connectologists® explore the future of electricity networks and the big changes shaping them. Our experts, Philip Bale, Kyle Murchie, and Pete Aston, unpack how distribution and transmission networks interact, starting with the basics of how demand forecasting has worked in the past and how it’s evolving. The podcast investigates how DNOs have traditionally used the "Week 24" process to predict demand, while also managing challenges like regional differences and the impacts of events like COVID-19 on energy use. Next, they dive into how new technologies—like large-scale battery storage, hydrogen elect...2024-11-1335 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#44 Guest Series with Dan Nicholls, Chief Product Officer and Commercial Officer at SNRGIn this episode, Connectologists® Pete Aston and Philip Bale sit down with Dan Nicholls, Chief Production and Commercial Officer at SNRG, to unpack how microgrids are transforming our energy systems and paving the way to decarbonised communities. Key Topics Covered: The Shift to Microgrids: Microgrids are becoming essential in rethinking energy use across residential, industrial, and commercial settings, especially as we transition to electric heating and vehicles. Unlike traditional energy systems, microgrids operate independently from gas utilities, with support from independent distribution network operators to overcome regulatory challenges. Localising Energy Use: Microgrids go beyond energy efficiency; th...2024-11-0543 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#43 How did we get here? A review of recent changes to connections policyAt the minute, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of Connections Reform. But with the grid connections industry undergoing significant changes in recent years, it’s important to reflect and consider the alterations which have been made. In this episode of our Connectology® podcast, we are joined by Catherine Cleary, Pete Aston and Nikki Pillinger who discuss what these shifts mean for the future of grid connections, setting the scene for 2025 and beyond. In this episode, the Connectologists® kick off by examining how the connections market has evolved over the years. Catherine draws from h...2024-10-2252 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#42 Repurposing Transmission ConnectionsIn this podcast, “Repurposing Transmission Connections”, our Connectologists® Kyle Murchie, Philip Bale, and Catherine Cleary, discuss the rapid changes happening in the transmission industry. The conversation focuses on providing an update for those with ongoing or upcoming projects, especially in light of the new TMO4+ process. Over the years, transmission connections have shifted from large generators and huge manufacturing or industrial sites to more diverse connections, including renewable energy projects, batteries, hydrogen, and data centres. We’ve been seeing projects exploring is they can make changes to their transmission connections and our Connectologists® wanted to discuss this further...2024-10-1525 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#41 Decarbonising by 2030 - can GB achieve it?Join the Connectologists® Kyle Murchie, Pete Aston, and Nikki Pillinger as they dive into the rapidly changing landscape of energy decarbonisation in Great Britain. As we transition from summer to autumn and the nights draw in, the urgency around decarbonisation has never been more pressing. With a bottleneck in electrical connections, an unprecedented level of planned infrastructure, and geopolitical risks, all against the backdrop of the first change in government in 14 years, the stakes are higher than ever. In this episode, the Connectologists® explore the feasibility of achieving a clean power system by 2030, Labour’s plans f...2024-10-0739 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#40 Grid News and Views #9Our Grid News and Views series is back for another episode! We are joined again by four of our brilliant team of Connectologists ® at Roadnight Taylor, Catherine Cleary, Kyle Murchie, Nikki Pillinger and Philip Bale. In this episode, Connections Reform is at the forefront of the conversation, where Kyle’s experience sitting on working groups will hopefully provide some key insight. Kyle first discusses the transitional arrangements and changes on the current Connections Reform and the CUSC Mods CMP434 and 435 in line with the responses collected from the recent consultation. Kyle also discusses the milestone calculat...2024-09-2433 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#39 Guest Series with Oli Spink, Head of System Planning at National Grid Electricity Distribution.In this episode of the Connectology podcast, Pete Aston is joined by Oli Spink, Head of System Planning at National Grid Electricity Distribution. The two discuss Network Development Plans in detail, with key insights from Oli’s experience in the Distribution System Operator team. After recognizing the importance of data processes, Pete and Oli discuss how Network Development plans have evolved in the last eight years, looking at the impact they may have. Looking to the future, they discuss the drivers behind network reinforcement and contrast the current drive that comes from new projects to the p...2024-07-2533 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#38 Grid News and Views - episode #8Welcome to another Grid News and Views podcast, where this month, Connectologists® Pete Aston, Nikki Pillinger and Kyle Murchie are unpacking some of the most current and upcoming topics in grid connections. Beginning by touching on technical limits, they discuss the projects that benefit, the pros and cons of dates being brought forward, and what good and bad technical offers look like. This episode also addresses the ever-pertinent Connections Reform, where we have insight from Kyle who is involved in the process alongside Renewable UK, looking at solutions to some of the key problems. Kyle outl...2024-07-0232 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#37 Guest series with Laura Henry, Electricity Policy and Change Manager, National Grid ESOIn this episode of the Connectology® Podcast, Catherine Cleary is joined by Laura Henry, Electricity Policy and Change Manager at the Electricity System Operator (National Grid ESO). They discuss the progress and impact of the various tactical initiatives that the ESO has implemented since it launched its five point plan in February 2023, and what work is left to do aside from Connections Reform itself. As well as the TEC Amnesty, modelling assumptions, treatment of storage, Technical Limits and the Transmission Works Review, they cover letters of authority and the ongoing work on allowable changes and m...2024-06-1238 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#36 Grid News and Views - episode #7All five of our Connectologists® come together in this Grid News and Views episode of the Connectology® Podcast to discuss hot industry topics, including: The delay in NGESO’s two-step offer process and the knock-on implications for connections customers Publication of the ESO’s ‘Beyond 2030’ report Clock starting and milestones for connection offers and mod apps The new letter of authority requirements for transmission applications Appendix G and queue management at distribution level – and talk of a new policy to allow DNOs to move projects from Part 4 to Part 2 How Appendix Gs and Technical Limits are being applied in Scotland Rising c...2024-04-0439 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#35 Insights into an IDNO with ESP Utilities Group LtdThis podcast, with guests Adam Miller and Nick Clark of ESP Utilities Group Ltd, helps the varying connections customer types to understand the independent distribution network operator (IDNO) market, how it is segregated and what IDNO connections have to offer for their development projects. Recorded October 2023 Links: Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ Newsletter sign up: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/newsletter/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roadnight-taylor-ltd/ Talk to us at info@roadnighttaylor.co.uk 2024-03-2730 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#34 Hydrogen and the grid - considerations for developers, investors, networks and regulatorsIn this podcast, Roadnight Taylor's Connectologists® Kyle Murchie, Pete Aston and Catherine Cleary discuss the Hydrogen development market and various opportunities and challenges around connecting the different types of hydrogen projects to the grid, including: how connections challenges differ from batteries and generation the ambitious Hydrogen Allocation Rounds (HAR) connection timeframes regulatory issues around final demand impacts of the industrial cluster focus how to design the transmission network to facilitate hydrogen connections physical access challenges triggering of new substations potential for 'tactical solutions' non-firm connections and; the potential for extensive liabilities under Final Sums. To find out mor...2024-03-1123 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#33 Agreements to vary and mod apps - what development and investment directors need to knowWith some 700 schemes about to receive an agreement to vary from National Grid ESO, Connectologists® Kyle Murchie, Pete Aston and Catherine Cleary set out the three reasons why, the differences between these cohorts and the risks and opportunities associated with each. They explore accelerated connection opportunities, connection offer milestones, curtailment risk and securities implications. They highlight differences between these agreements to vary and “business as usual” mod apps, and flag the interaction between mod apps and milestones, termination risk and the critical dates to be aware of. Recorded 1 February 2024 Li...2024-02-2729 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#32 Grid News and Views - episode #6In this Grid News and Views episode of the Connectology® Podcast, Roadnight Taylor's Pete Aston hosts colleagues Nikki Pillinger, Philip Bale and Kyle Murchie as they discuss National Grid ESO and the DNOs' progress with the Technical Limits initiative, and: How valid is the data behind your DNO curtailment assessment? The milestones calculator for transmission-connecting projects The migration of the Electricity System Operator (ESO) to the National Energy System Operator (NESO) The consultation on the change in threshold for Large Generators The risks to developers/investors of the use by network operators of sustained ratings vs cyclic ratings in...2024-02-1230 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#30 Transmission milestonesOn this podcast, three of Roadnight Taylor’s elite connections engineers – Connectologists® Catherine Cleary, Pete Aston and Kyle Murchie – explore the history, the mechanism's, strengths, weaknesses and the risks associated with connection offer milestones at transmission - an entirely new thing - which are being impemented following CUSC modification CMP376. There are also links in the description to National Grid ESO's invaluable resources and webinars on this complex and important topic. The ESO's guidance document can be found here: https://www.nationalgrideso.com/document/294211/download and it has upcoming webinars on the milestones on 19 December and 10 January. De...2024-01-0434 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#31 Grid News and Views - episode #5In this Grid news and views’ episode, Pete Aston hosts colleagues Catherine Cleary and Philip Bale - as well as the freshly-minted fifth Connectologist®, Kyle Murchie - as they discuss National Grid ESO's progress with two-step offers, when this will come to an end, and: The proposed/impending introduction of LOAs (letters of authority) at transmission Progress on large transmission reinforcement works Reintroduction of pre-app calls at transmission (in some cases) Application of Appendix G into CUSC The harmonisation of definitions of large power stations across the country Progress with SGT charging reform Recorded 13 December 2023 2024-01-0425 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#29 What a good investment director needs to know about grid due diligence to mitigate risks and potentially save £millionsWith increasing levels of risk and complexity associated with investments in large-scale energy projects – not least with regards their grid connections – it is no surprise that investors are increasingly seeking the highest levels of specialised grid expertise for their connection due diligence. In this podcast, two of Roadnight Taylor’s elite connection specialists – Connectologists® Catherine Cleary and Pete Aston – discuss the key themes that they see determining the success of a connection and of a grid due diligence exercise, and some of the areas of risk that they see having been missed by third parties when a post-acquis...2023-12-1832 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#28 Are your projects’ curtailments about to get a lot worse?Changes both to Distribution Network Operators' modelling of curtailment and to their real-time operation of ANM schemes are impacting on developers' and investors' abilities to make informed investment decisions - and may lead to significant lost yield over and above what would have been anticipated on any given project. In this shifting landscape it pays to be informed in order to identify those projects with the greatest risks, and to engage positively with system planning teams to seek to address those risks early. On this podcast, three of Roadnight Taylor’s elite connections engineers – Connectologists® Catherine Cleary, Pete A...2023-11-2231 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#27 The new treatment of Battery Energy Storage Schemes (BESS)Two of our Connectologists®, specialist connections engineers Pete Aston and Philip Bale, discuss the new rules regarding the treatment of Battery Energy Storage Schemes (BESS) by Distribution Network Operator (DNOs) with regards to network connections. The change is as a result of the ENA's three-point plan to accelerate connections and came into force on 30 September 2023. This is an important, time-sensitive topic that will be of interest to battery storage developers, and developers and investors of large-scale commercial, industrial, real estate and housing with large demand or decarbonisation requirements. The three tactical solutions and how they mi...2023-11-0728 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#26 Grid news and views - Episode #4In this Grid news and views’ episode, Connectologist® Nikki Pillinger hosts colleagues Catherine Cleary and Philip Bale as they report back from National Grid ESO's customer connections seminar on 16 October, and in addition: 1) Update on the Technical Limits initiative phasing, assessments and timings 2) Flag that DNO's re-assessment of asset ratings is bringing about significantly higher levels of ANM curtailment risk 3) Discuss DUoS charging increases as a result of socialising of reinforcement under SCR 4) Highlight new guidance notes for the treatment of storage by DNOs Recorded 18 October 2023 Links: ...2023-10-2529 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#25 The Technical Limits initiative. Will it accelerate your projects?With connection timescales in the late 2030s becoming the new normal for distribution connections, the ENA's Technical Limits initiative seeks to better utilise transmission headroom at each GSP in order to accelerate connections of smaller, more agile projects that are ready to connect. In this episode Roadnight Taylor's four Connectologists® help developers and investors to understand the implications for the portfolios of large-scale projects they are building or acquiring. Recorded 6 September 2023 Links: Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ Newsletter sign up: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/newsle...2023-10-1120 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#24 Grid News and Views - Episode #3Our team of Connectologists® return for a third podcast in their ‘Grid news and views’ series to discuss some of the most important updates in their field. In this episode our influential connection specialists, among other news, discuss the latest intervention from the ENA and Ofgem regarding the treatment of storage. Additionally, the podcast addresses a range of topical threads: Changes to the planning regime for onshore wind, and whether they are significant enough to cause a rush of connection applications in England - or even cancellations The Electricity Networks Commissioner's (Nick Winser) report on accelerating elect...2023-09-2524 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#23 Understanding BEGAs and BELLAs: so your team doesn’t get this critical step wrongWith the choice of applying for a Bilateral Embedded Generator Agreement (BEGA) or a Bilateral Embedded Licence Exemptible Large Generator Agreement (BELLA) having such high potential impacts on the viability, cost or timing of a connection - and therefore on a project - it pays to understand the implications as well as the high-level choices you will have to make. Diligent development Directors and Investment Directors will be better placed to make the right calls after listening to this episode, in which two of Roadnight Taylor’s elite connection specialists – Connectologists® Catherine Cleary and Pete Aston – discuss the fun...2023-09-1833 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#22 Understanding outage risks (transmission)Insights to help you understand projects’ abnormal running risks, and how to mitigate them. With the levels of risk involved in consenting or acquiring transmission-connected projects, understanding outage risk should be near the top of any good Development or Investment Director's list. In this podcast hosted by Pete Aston, two other Roadnight Taylor elite connection specialists (Connectologists®) Catherine Cleary and Philip Bale, discuss the key themes that they will cover in an upcoming webinar on this increasingly popular subject. The webinar is on Wednesday 8 November. More details will follow on our website later, but...2023-08-3121 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#21 Grid News and Views - Episode #2Our team of Connectologists® return for a second podcast in their ‘Grid news and views’ series to discuss some of the most important updates in their field. In this second episode our influential connection specialists, among other news, discuss National Grid’s long term connections reform piece, exploring the changes it results in, and when we can expect an industry update. Additionally, the podcast addresses other topics, with both specific and wider breadths: The modification to the commercial connection use of system charging and who it benefits Discussion of the distribution/transmission boundary as laid out in the...2023-08-1623 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#20 Grid News and Views - Episode #1Our four Connectologists® get together again to give their views on some of the key news topics in the connections industry. Among other topics they discuss: NGESO's recent letter about battery connections being able to connect ahead of non-critical enabling works experiences with older schemes without milestones being chased by DNOs, as mentioned in the ENA's three-point plan slow DNO project progressions and how more should be being done across the industry to expediate the processes how the UK can reach DESNZ's Solar Taskforce target of 70GW solar by 2035 the positivity of large-scale transmission reinforcements being p...2023-07-2627 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#19 Now you’ve got a connection offer, what next?In this Connectology® podcast, two of Roadnight Taylor's Connectologists® - Specialist Connections Engineer, Catherine Cleary, and Specialist Connections Manager, Nikki Pillinger - discuss the perils and pitfalls to avoid once a great grid connection offer has been accepted. Recorded: April 2023 Links: Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ Newsletter sign up: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/newsletter/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roadnight-taylor-ltd/ Talk to us at info@roadnighttaylor.co.uk 2023-07-1221 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#18 Understanding outage risks webinar - who should tune in, when and why The risk of outages on project revenues often trumps ANM curtailment risk, having already cost investors, on individual projects, more than £10 million. These revenue risks rise with connection voltage, connection scale, and the volume of connections being made. Even a cursory look at the ECRs suggest that many portfolios will be harbouring multiple ticking timebombs. In this podcast, Pete Aston explains why we are hosting an upcoming webinar to share insight to help Development and Investment Directors understand abnormal running risk, and how to go about mitigating the issues identified in their schemes. The we...2023-06-2832 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#17 Significant Code Review (SCR) Curtailment Limits - what every good Development and Investment Director should knowUnder the new connection charging and access rules that came into force on 01 April 2023 (SCR), when DNOs provide a curtailable connection they will be required to compensate connected customers for any curtailment above a prescribed level. Curtailed connections may be enduring but may only be interim whilst the DNO carries out reinforcements at their own cost. Either way they will become common-place, and all good Development Directors and Investment Directors should understand the weaknesses of the Curtailment Limit calculation formula, and how the limit differs from DNOs' curtailment reports. In this Connectology podcast, Pete Aston - who was responsible f...2023-06-2235 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#16 Connections reform update #1 For the first time, all four of Roadnight Taylor's Connectologists® - Pete Aston, Catherine Cleary, Philip Bale and Nikki Pillinger are together on the same podcast. In this episode they are discussing the recent connections reform output from National Grid ESO and the Energy Networks Association, as well as Ofgem's open letter on future reform to the electricity connections process, in which it invites feedback from stakeholders by 16 June 2023. Recorded: 30 May 2023 Links: The ESO's Five Point Plan The ENA's Three Point Plan Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ News...2023-06-0828 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#15 Understanding DNO curtailment assessment reports webinar - who should tune in, when and whyEnergy scheme developers make big calls in deciding whether to take projects forward into planning – and investors make even bigger calls at Final Investment Decision (FID). Increasingly, there will be at least some risk of curtailment associated with their connections, and often all that they will have to go on is a curtailment report issued by the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). In this podcast, Connectologists® Pete Aston and Philip Bale explain why they wanted to share, on their upcoming connectology® webinar, insight into ANM and the DNOs' reports, what they will be covering and who will...2023-06-0517 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#14 Hinkley Point C Connection Project: an MP’s view – The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox on the challenges for North Somerset and The Electricity Transmission Compensation BillThe second in a series of Pete Aston’s look at the HPC project, aimed at helping developers with connection offers understand the effect that transmission reinforcement work has on their projects. Pete is joined by The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox, MP for North Somerset, recorded in his office in Parliament. Dr Fox talks about the national need for energy, and the challenges the HPC major infrastructure project gave his local constituents, particularly in planning law and landowner compensation. From his involvement in this project and following consultation with his peers in the House of C...2023-05-2319 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#13 The grid connection feasibility studies webinar - who should tune in, when and whyThe first factor underpinning Roadnight Taylor's extraordinary success-rate in High and Extra High Voltage connection applications - historically, some five times that of the market as a whole - is that it puts applications in on the right parts of the network. Second, a valuable feasibility study will also identify the network opportunity: what would need to be true for a connection to be technically and commercially feasible, and to be approved by the DNO. In this podcast, Hugh Taylor explains why the Connectologists® Pete Aston and Philip Bale have volunteered to share so much feasibility know-how, how t...2023-05-1512 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#12 Hinkley Point C Connection Project: an introduction - Insights into transmission reinforcements and for developers stuck behind such worksMany developers’ grid connections – whether at distribution or transmission – are being delayed by significant transmission reinforcement works. In this, the first of a series of podcasts, Pete Aston introduces the Hinkley Point C Connection (HPC) project, with a view to helping developers understand the scale of transmission works, and what it means for connections projects that are sitting behind similar, if not more extensive, reinforcements. Pete – who was responsible for the design elements of the scheme in his previous role with WPD (now NGED) – explains more about the 59 kilometre, 400kV circuit, and the process involved in the programme...2023-05-0919 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#11 National Grid’s Call For Expressions of Interest - What you should know, before it’s too late…In this connectology® podcast, two of Roadnight Taylor's Connectologists® (Catherine Cleary and Nikki Pillinger) discuss National Grid's time-limited step towards addressing the long grid connection timescales - some as late as 2037 - that are frustrating the UK's clean growth aspirations. The ESO has called for expressions of interest from contracted connection customers - importantly, at both distribution and transmission - whose connection dates have been impacted by transmission reinforcement works requirements. Edit: The extended deadline for responses is 15 May 2023. If you have an accepted offer at transmission - or have a distribution-level offer that has been negatively imp...2023-04-1912 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#10 Optimising flexible connections to maximise income – what every good Development and Investment Director should knowActive Network Management (ANM) and intertrips can both suck financial performance out of projects. There are nuances between these flexible arrangements, and with a better understanding of each, investors in contracted projects – or even connected projects – can seek out opportunities to significantly increase exported energy (and/or import) and so increase revenues. In this podcast two of our Connectologists®, Philip Bale and Pete Aston, explain intertrips and ANM, and help developers and investors to understand how and when each of these flexible arrangements can be removed, interchanged or combined to minimise both curtailment and incidents of sites being...2023-04-1218 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#09 Third party works - what every good Development and Investment Director should knowThird party works can have a significant impact on the capital costs and the connection timescale of a transmission connected scheme. Across the industry there is an increasing understanding that third party works can bring real risks to a project, but there remains some lack of awareness of requirements, roles and responsibilities among not only the connecting customers but also the network operators themselves. In this podcast two of our Connectologists®, Pete Aston and Catherine Cleary, explain what third party works are, the risks they bring and how you get from a clause in your connection offer t...2023-03-2124 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#08 NGESO securities and liabilities: insights for success and risk management in connectionsWith the threat of cancellation charges in the tens of £millions touching a significant proportion of utility-scale energy projects, now, a Development Director or Investment Director's improved understanding of the key drivers can make or save entire schemes, let alone save you £millions. In this episode, Catherine Cleary and Pete Aston (who we lose half way through!) give insight into NGESO's securities and liabilities methodologies and how to achieve success and manage risk - which we will cover in more detail in our webinar on 9 March. The link to sign up is below. Recorded: 9 February 2023...2023-02-2413 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#07 Game or be Gamed? The Significant Code Review: strategies and tactics when connecting under the new rulesRoadnight Taylor Connectologist® Pete Aston joins Hugh Taylor to discuss the Significant Code Review (SCR) and the tactics and strategies that could be used by parties in grid connections to game the new system. There will be many winners and losers under the new connection rules – with £millions being won or lost by developers and investors on individual schemes alone. Pete sees understanding nuances around point of connection voltage as one of the biggest areas of opportunity – or risk – for connection customers. He explains interim arrangements around flexible connections, including Active Network Management (ANM) and curtailme...2023-02-2226 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#06 NetZero Vs RIIO-ED2 final determinationsRoadnight Taylor Connectologists® Pete Aston and Catherine Cleary discuss the RIIO-ED2 final determinations with Merlin Hyman, Chief Executive of Regen. We wanted to talk with Merlin about Regen’s and his concerns about the determinations. £billions are at stake for investment in the development of network infrastructure and the grid and it’s crucial that this is done right to help the nation reach net zero, wean off fossil fuels and reduce energy bills. Among other things, a better steer from Central Government to Ofgem and a new independent body to define network requirements were discus...2022-12-1935 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#05 The gifts we’d like to give the GB electricity networks for ChristmasPete Aston hosts a festive chat with two of our other Connectologists®, Philip Bale and Nikki Pillinger, to find out what they would like the networks and DNOs to receive for Christmas to help improve the connections process and the net zero energy transition. They include extra funding, support and resource for the DNOs and better joined-up strategies. They've put improved battery modelling, grid queue and application management, transmission reinforcement charging and more on the list for Santa! Recorded 25 November 2022 Links: Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ News...2022-12-1531 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#04 National Grid’s new modelling assumptions for battery storageGamechanger - might your generation connection timeframes reduce by a decade? National Grid has radically updated its assumptions around the operation of BESS, and therefore the impact of battery storage on reinforcement requirements. Two of our Connectologists®, Pete Aston and Catherine Cleary, discuss how this works, how and where grid queues may be freed up to allow more generation and storage to connect much earlier – and what else NGESO might be in the pipeline to help accelerate connections. Recorded: 25 November 2022 Links: Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ ...2022-12-1532 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#01 National Grid’s TEC Amnesty: cool strategies that good Development and Investment Directors should knowIn this episode, Catherine Cleary, one of our Connectologists®, talks about National’s Grid TEC Amnesty. This is a time limited opportunity for project developers to cancel connection offers that they have already accepted without incurring cancellation charges. Catherine identifies opportunities for the cancellation, downsizing or refining of schemes that can bring benefits for Development and Investment Directors of projects. Recorded: 21 October 2022 Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ Newsletter sign up: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/newsletter/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roadnight-taylor-ltd/ Talk to us at info...2022-12-0115 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#03 Tertiary connections: what every good Development and Investment Director should knowThe dash for transmission connections started with the developer community seeking tertiary connection opportunities. Many are now being secured and transacted. In this episode, Pete Aston, one of our Connectologists®, gives an overview of what Development and Investment Directors should know about these idiosyncratic connections. Recorded: 21 October 2022 Website: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/ Pete’s blog on ‘The problem with tertiary connections’: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/connectology/the-problem-with-tertiary-connections/ Newsletter sign up: https://roadnighttaylor.co.uk/newsletter/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roadnight-taylor-ltd/ Talk to us at info@r...2022-11-2218 min

The Connectology® Podcast by Roadnight Taylor#02 The Significant Code Review: what every good Development and Investment Director should knowIn this podcast, Pete Aston, one of our Connectologists®, gives a brief introduction to the huge topic of the upcoming changes to how connection charges are calculated at distribution level – Ofgem’s Significant Code Review (SCR). These changes will present both significant risks and opportunities to existing connected projects (including energy generation and storage schemes, and commercial and industrial demand-led schemes), as well as accepted but not yet connected projects, and even those which haven’t been applied for yet. There will be many losers and many winners as a result of decisions made regarding SCR. Mil...2022-11-2224 min