Scotland is central to the UK’s clean power ambitions, but delivering new generation at scale depends on whether the grid can be reinforced, connected, and operated efficiently. Major transmission reinforcements across Scotland are already underway to connect and move rapidly growing renewable generation, particularly ScotWind and other offshore wind, into wider demand centres. At the same time, grid connections reform is changing how projects progress from application to “ready-to-build” reality, and new planning policy statements underline the urgency of nationally significant energy infrastructure.

This half-day event will examine the commercial and policy choices that determine whether investment turns into energised assets: how networks build and connection processes are governed; how costs and timelines are allocated; and what the system needs – storage, flexibility, operational reforms – to keep a renewables-heavy grid reliable and affordable. The session structure is designed for high-value learning and debate, with two expert presentations and two panel discussions, followed by a networking period (with lunch).

It is intended for developers and investors, network and flexibility providers, major electricity users, local government and planners, advisors (legal, finance, and consulting), and anyone whose projects or costs are affected by grid capacity, connection timelines, and infrastructure consent. It will also be relevant to those tracking the new RIIO-3 settlement and to how investment incentives translate into on-the-ground delivery.