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Transmission

Grid connection reform with Ed Birkett ( Director of New Project Development @ Low Carbon)

Aug 22, 2024
Ed Birkett, Director of New Project Development at Low Carbon, shares insights into the renewable energy landscape in Great Britain. He discusses the challenges posed by 'zombie' projects cluttering the grid connection queue and the urgent need for system reform. Birkett explores how changes in Contracts for Difference could bolster net-zero goals, while also addressing the long lead times for essential equipment. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between strategic planning and market-driven approaches to enhance solar project development.
46:26

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Implementing continuous grid connection auctions can streamline project timelines and significantly increase the volume of renewable energy projects coming online.
  • Developers face major financial challenges due to high costs associated with large-scale energy projects, necessitating regulatory frameworks to ensure viability and attract investment.

Deep dives

Continuous Grid Connection Process

Implementing a continuous grid connection process could provide a more efficient approach to managing electricity infrastructure. Instead of waiting for annual auctions, a system where one auction ends and the next begins could help balance government objectives with maintaining low consumer prices. This proposal is seen as a way to streamline project timelines and increase the volume of renewable energy projects coming online. Continuous auctions would allow developers to secure contracts and proceed with projects in a more timely fashion, catering to the urgent need for energy transition.

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