Training materials

DESNZ publishes OFTO regime policy reforms following call for evidence

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published an update outlining policy reforms to the Offshore Transmission Owner (OFTO) regime, following its 2023–2024 Call for Evidence. The changes include a new 132kV array transmission licence class exemption which allows offshore wind farms to use higher-voltage 132kV cabling without needing to divest these as part of offshore transmission assets and an extension of the Generator Commissioning Clause (GCC) from 18 to 27 months, a measure included in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill currently before Parliament.

DESNZ publishes CfD Allocation Round 8 supply chain plan guidance for solar projects

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published its guidance for solar projects of 300MW or more applying to Allocation Round 8 of the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme. Applicants must submit a Supply Chain Plan (SCP) and obtain a statement of approval from the Secretary of State to qualify. The SCP assesses commitments in four areas—Green Growth, Infrastructure, Innovation, and Skills—with a minimum 60% score required in each. The application process includes a one-week submission window, optional feedback sessions, and opportunities for resubmission. After a CfD is awarded, DESNZ monitors implementation through regular meetings. A final Supply Chain Implementation Statement is required to meet CfD contract conditions. Failure to meet SCP commitments may result in contract termination.

DESNZ issues Contract Budget Notice for Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 7

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published the Contract Budget Notice and accompanying explanatory note for the seventh Contracts for Difference (CfD) Allocation Round (AR7). The notice, issued under Regulation 11 of the Contracts for Difference (Allocation) Regulations 2014, establishes the overall budget and delivery parameters for offshore wind and floating offshore wind projects under AR7. The overall budget available is £1.08bn (2024 prices), comprising £900m for offshore wind (Pot 3) and £180m for floating offshore wind (Pot 4). Delivery years have been set for 2028/29 to 2030/31 (Pot 3) and 2028/29 to 2029/30 (Pot 4), with CfD support awarded for 20 years. DESNZ has also issued related statutory notices covering the pot structure and administrative strike prices (ASPs), standard terms, application window, counterparty costs, contract framework, and clean industry bonus (CIB) framework. These collectively give effect to the launch of AR7 and AR7a (the subsequent round covering non-offshore wind technologies).

Ofgem publishes decision rejecting CMP444 proposal

Ofgem has rejected Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC) Modification Proposal 444 (CMP444) as well as all seven alternative proposals that intended to introduce upper and lower limits on wider generation Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS) charges. Ofgem concluded that these proposals would diminish cost-reflectivity and negatively impact the Applicable Charging Objectives overall, based on consultation responses following its July 2025 minded-to decision. As a result, the current TNUoS charging arrangements will remain in place.