By Dr. Eva Barrett and Dr. Maria Hallinan, Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA)
On 26 September the CRU published its new Electricity Connection Policy – Generation and System Services (ECP-GSS), which brings major changes to how renewable energy projects like solar will connect to the grid in Ireland. This “new connections policy” will replace the Enduring Connection Policy (ECP-2), and it comes after extensive feedback from stakeholders, including ISEA, in a consultation earlier this year.
We’ve pulled together some key insights from the new policy and how it will impact solar energy projects moving forward.
What did ISEA ask for?
In February this year, ISEA submitted several recommendations during the CRU’s consultation, and we’re pleased to see many of our proposals reflected in the final policy.
Here’s what we advocated for:
Keep the existing ECP framework active: Keep connecting projects under the ECP until the new ECP-GSS is in place. This allows projects to continue connecting to the grid during the transition and prevents any slowdowns.
Open at least one connection window in 2024 and two thereafter: To ensure continuous progress, we recommended that at least one connection window be opened in 2024, followed by two annual windows in subsequent years. Additionally, we called for a continuous application process, allowing projects to apply at any time, ensuring flexibility for developers.
Expand the early-stage engagement with developers: We advocated for an enhanced early-stage engagement process, where developers would submit a complete planning application before applying for grid connections. This will help meet the EU’s RED III permitting timelines, which aim to reduce project delays and streamline the connection process.
Provide developers with better access to network information: We suggested the CRU adopt a model similar to the UK, where developers are given greater access to detailed network information. This would empower them to make more informed decisions, improving efficiency and reducing potential grid connection issues.
Establish a Connection Liaison Group: To improve communication and address challenges as they arise, we called for the creation of a Connection Liaison Group. This would allow stakeholders—developers, the CRU, and system operators—to meet regularly and collaboratively resolve issues, ensuring the connection process runs smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
While our core recommendations were all followed, a Connections Liaison Group is yet to be set up and we await details on how more detailed network information will be made available.
What happens next?
In 2024, just one connection batch will be available from 1 October to 30 November under the existing ECP-2 process. Then, in September 2025, the new ECP-GSS policy kicks off with a single connection batch. There’ll be changes to the process and timing for constraint reports; and work is set to continue to expand the renewable hubs pilot scheme for future inclusion in the connection process. By 2026, bi-annual batches will start, giving developers two chances each year to apply.
Here are some key updates from the new policy:
Batch deadlines and applications: Starting in 2026, developers will have two deadlines—31 March and 30 September each year—to submit connection applications, with no limits on the number of entries.
New RED III rules: For renewable and co-located energy storage projects (RED III), planning permission must be submitted before a grid application, and these projects will follow an accelerated permitting process.
Mini-Generation and Small-Scale Generation: ESB Networks’ Mini-Generation and Small-Scale Generation pilots will now fall within this connections policy, and the non-batch process will be discontinued.
Community-led projects: These projects will no longer have lower and upper MEC limits and and there will be no cap on the number of applications or entries into a batch for these projects, giving communities more opportunities to participate in the renewable energy transition.
Key takeaways
The ECP-GSS marks a positive step forward for Ireland’s renewable energy sector. Some key takeaways from the new policy include:
Bi-annual connection windows: Starting in 2026, there will be two opportunities each year for projects to apply for grid connections, with batch closing dates on 31 March and 30 September.
Continuous applications: Developers will now have the flexibility to submit applications at any time, making the process more fluid and less constrained by specific opening dates.
Accelerated permitting for RED III projects: Under EU regulations, renewable and co-located energy storage projects classified as RED III will benefit from a faster permitting process, ensuring quicker project timelines.
Planning requirements for RED III and non-RED III projects: RED III projects must have a complete planning application before making a grid connection request, while non-RED III projects are required to have full planning permission in place before applying.
Inclusion of Mini-Generation and Small-Scale Generation pilots: ESB Networks’ pilots in these areas will now be fully integrated into the new connections policy, and the non-batch process will be phased out.
Expanded opportunities for community-led projects: MEC limits will no longer apply to community-led renewable projects, and there will be no cap on the number of applications or entries into a batch. This change is crucial to ensuring the continued growth and success of community-driven initiatives, helping us achieve our 2030 targets.
Moving Forward
The new connections policy represents a positive shift, underscoring the CRU’s commitment to streamlining and speeding up connection processes. It also reflects key aspects of ISEA’s advocacy on critical issues around the ECP, which will play a crucial role in accelerating the rollout of solar energy projects across Ireland. However, some important matters, such as the establishment of a Connections Liaison Group, remain unresolved. These will be central to ISEA’s ongoing engagement with the CRU and other stakeholders as we continue to push for a more efficient and collaborative approach to grid connections.
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