Introduction
This dataset shows the longest lead time seen for prospective large demand sites to connect to UK Power Networks’ distribution network at or under each of the Grid Supply Points in our service area.
This process is known as a "Modification Application" or "ModApp". Further information about this application is given in the "Other" section of this dataset. It happens as a result of UK Power Networks submitting an application to the National Energy System Operator (NESO) for National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) to consider the material impact the large demand site may have on their transmission network.
UK Power Networks submits these applications for large demand sites (e.g. very large data centres), where its connection and envisaged load is deemed to have a material impact on the operation of both the distribution and transmission network.
These dates reflect the quoted time it will take for NGET to carry out the necessary transmission network building or reinforcement, for it to accommodate the new electrical load (from both a thermal and fault level perspective).
UK Power Networks does not submit these applications for smaller connection projects (e.g. housing developments), as they are deemed not to have a sufficiently material impact on the transmission network. This future load is incorporated into our wider distribution network load forecasting, which is shared with NGET via regulatory processes for their consideration (e.g. The "Week 24" submission process).
This list has been determined using internal systems UK Power Networks uses to manage all committed projects in the process of connecting to our network.
To protect the identity of the sites, no project information has been disclosed, and insights are aggregated at the Grid Supply Point level.
As per Section 11 of the Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC) ("Interpretation and Definitions"), a Modification is "any actual or proposed replacement, renovation, modification, alteration, or construction by or on behalf of a User or The Company to either the User’s Plant or Apparatus or the manner of its operation or Transmission Plant or Transmission Apparatus or the manner of its operation which in either case has or may have a Material Effect on another CUSC Party at a particular Connection Site".
Further information about Modifications, including Modification Applications, can be found in Section 6.9 of the CUSC ("General Provisions", "Modifications").
The format of a Modification Application is provided in Exhibit I of the CUSC.
Methodological Approach
- Modification Applications linked to large demand sites are identified through desktop exercises using UK Power Networks' internal customer relationship management system and extracted
- Information for each application is extracted in a tabular format (e.g., lead times, status, Grid Supply Point)
- Subsequent analysis is done to extract the longest times for each Grid Supply Point and generate the resultant dataset.
Quality Control Statement
The data is provided "as is".
Assurance Statement
The dataset uses internal data, relating to large demand projects and Modification Applications in UK Power Networks' licence areas.
Data have been checked with both automatic and manual validation methods.
The dataset is generated through a manual process, conducted by the Distribution System Operator's Regional Development Team.
The dataset will be reviewed quarterly to assess any changes, and to determine if any updates to the methodology are necessary.
This process ensures that the dataset remains relevant and reflective of the data centre projects UK Power Networks is aware of.
To protect the identity of the sites, no project information has been disclosed, and insights are aggregated at the Grid Supply Point level.
Other
Download dataset information: Metadata (JSON)
Definitions of key terms related to this dataset can be found in the Open Data Portal Glossary: https://ukpowernetworks.opendatasoft.com/pages/glossary/
To view this data please register and login.