Research Assistant, Connections Map and Cost Estimation Tool Terms and Conditions

Research Assistant

The 'Research Assistant' tool is made up of the Connections Map and a cost estimation function. The purpose of this tool is to help you to assess the availability of connections and indicative capital costs of direct connections to the transmission network in England and Wales. It gives a general indication of the timeframes associated with customer connections based on market demand, reinforcements underway or needed and our strategy to increase capacity on the network. 

This tool is subject to the terms and conditions set out below and the general terms and conditions of this website.
 

Connections Map

Things to note in respect of the Connections Map:

  • The data is provided as an indication only and further system studies will need to be carried out in respect of the specific proposed connection during the formal connection process following a connection application to the electricity system operator. 

  • The data within the map will be updated periodically but please note that the transmission system is always subject to changes. 

  • The data within the map is indicative and will not reflect any site-specific constraints which may prevent connections within the timeframes shown.

To obtain a more accurate indication of the capacity available and any transmission works please submit an enquiry using the Enquiry Form.
 

Cost Estimations

The purpose of the cost estimator element of the tool is to provide you with an indicative capital cost of connection when considering a direct connection to the National Grid transmission network. 

It produces an indicative estimate of the cost of the connection asset works using costs incurred by National Grid Electricity Transmission plc ('NGET') in undertaking these types of works in the past. The specific transmission connection charges applicable will depend on the exact requirements of the connection and so the actual charges may differ from this estimate. If you want to discuss the specifics of your connection, please make an enquiry with us using the Enquiry Form.  

Things to note in respect of any cost estimate:

  • An estimated cost is generic and does not specifically consider the transmission network in terms of any additional transmission reinforcement works.  

  • It assumes there is no need to carry out any additional work. This will be determined at the point of the connection application via technical studies.  

  • It assumes that the transmission connection works are straightforward, the connection design meets the requirements of the National Electricity Transmission Security and Quality Supply Standard and that the cable is installed where no abnormal ground conditions exist (i.e. no public highway/river crossings). 

  • It assumes the route corridor for the cable circuit that extends beyond the existing substation is without obstructions/significant geological or topographical features. 

  • It assumes that we will be carrying out the transmission connection asset works on your behalf. Please note that at the point of connection it is possible for you to undertake this work yourselves. 

  • It assumes that your equipment will be compliant with the various industry standards and Grid Code requirements. 

  • It assumes that land and space is available at an existing substation site and therefore the indicative cost is exclusive of any land purchase or consent requirements. 

  • The costs of securities are not included within this tool and you may be liable for additional costs as part of your connection. 

  • The data within the cost estimator is updated annually so please note that the indicative cost is accurate for the present financial year alone. Based on the maturity of your requirements at this stage we have had to base our assumptions on our standard solution in accordance with the Customer Use System Code (CUSC) definition of Ownership Boundary. This may need adjustments to reflect the true position at the point of application.
     

Disclaimer

The Research Assistant gives a general illustration of connections to the transmission network in England and Wales. 

It's intended to give an indicative view and should not be relied upon to assess the terms of a specific connection. While we use reasonable endeavours to ensure that the information is accurate, we do not warrant, and do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content or for any loss which may arise from reliance on this information.  

We have included maps showing the approximate boundaries of land owned by NGET, which may be of interest to you in the context of potential connections. Please note that the land may be subject to third-party interests or tenancy agreements. If the land is of interest to you and you would like to understand more about a specific plot, please use the enquiry form on the Electricity Connections website.

Please note that in considering any enquiries NGET is not making any commitment regarding the availability of the land or any associated connection which will be considered independently of each other or as a combined land & connection enquiry. Initial enquiries are limited to a maximum of 10 plots unless otherwise agreed with NGET.

The Connection Map does not currently include all the land owned by National Grid. It is our intention to include additional holdings over time and in the interim period we welcome enquiries around sites not listed.

We have developed the guides to prices and timescales to assist you with connections applications. They give a general illustration of connections cost and time to connect only and cannot be relied upon to assess the terms of connections for specific premises. 

NGET’s liability position is as detailed in the general terms and conditions of this website but, as a summary, NGET shall not be liable to you in tort (including negligence) or otherwise, arising under or in connection with your use of the Research Assistant tool for: (a) loss of profits; (b) loss of sales or business; (c) loss of agreements or contracts; (d) loss of anticipated savings; (e) loss of or damage to goodwill; or (f) any indirect or consequential loss.