If a developer has asked about putting solar on your land, grid connections reform is part of the reason. The rules now reward projects that already have the land secured.
What changed
The old grid queue was “first come, first served”, and it grew to more than 700GW, far more than the country needs. The reformed queue gives priority to projects that are both ready and needed.
- Gate 2 projects are ready: the land is secured, planning is moving and the project fits the government’s Clean Power plans. They get a firm place in the queue.
- Gate 1 projects are not ready yet. They can apply again in a future window.
Why it matters to landowners
- Secured land is now essential. Developers need an option or lease agreed before they can get a firm grid place. That is why you may be asked to sign earlier than you expect.
- Take your time with the terms. Your solicitor should review any option agreement. Some options include a fee while they run, so check what yours offers.
- Not every site will go ahead. In NGED’s area, which covers the South West, Midlands and Wales, the reformed queue includes about 6.5GW of solar planned before 2030 and 3.5GW for 2031 to 2035. Some areas have more room than others.
What we do
We check the grid and planning picture for your land first, for free, so you know if it has a real chance before you sign anything.
Sources
Correct at the time of writing (1 October 2026).