UKPN Connections Customer Forum

Kirsty Kent, our Operations Director, attended the UK Power Networks Connections Customer Forum on 10 March 2026, where industry stakeholders met to discuss the future of electricity connections and network capacity.

The forum brought together customers, developers and network specialists to hear about UK Power Networks’ proposed connections strategy for the upcoming ED3 regulatory period. Presentations focused on making the connections process more efficient, improving transparency for customers and offering greater flexibility in how connection projects are delivered, while continuing to support the UK’s transition to net zero.

Discussions also covered the significant rise in electricity demand expected over the coming decades, driven by the growing uptake of low-carbon technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps. Speakers highlighted the importance of improved forecasting, better data sharing and new digital tools to help ensure the grid can support this transition.

Kirsty found the event insightful, particularly the presentation of the “Blue Light” planning tool. Developed to support emergency services as they plan the electrification of their estates, the tool is designed to make the connections process clearer by showing available network capacity and potential connection requirements. By helping organisations explore options and estimate their needs earlier in the planning process, it could support better decision-making and more effective long-term infrastructure planning. She also enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with industry colleagues and looks forward to the next event.