Microgrids, Power-to-X, and Data Centres: Salvaging Value from CP2030 Gate 1 Grid Offers
Receiving a Gate 1 connection offer no longer has to signal the end of a viable energy project. As grid timelines stretch into decades, developers are increasingly turning to behind-the-meter solutions such as Power-to-X, private-wire demand, and data centre co-location to unlock revenue sooner. By rethinking how and where electricity is monetised, Gate 1 projects can reduce risk, improve bankability, and retain strategic optionality while awaiting Gate 2 progression.
January 9, 2026
H&MV Engineering Invests In Blake Clough Consulting
H&MV Engineering has announced its investment in Blake Clough Consulting, a specialist energy consultancy focused on grid connection, power systems analysis, and electrical design. Blake Clough will continue to operate independently within the H&MV Engineering Group, enabling both organisations to deliver more comprehensive, end-to-end power engineering solutions for clients across the energy and data centre sectors. The partnership strengthens global capabilities in supporting the transition to Net Zero.
January 6, 2026
All We Want For Christmas Is To Understand the Power Grid
From the quietest demand days of the year to dramatic voltage challenges and the famous New Year’s “midnight surge,” the festive season produces some of the most unusual electricity patterns on the system. As Britain powers down for Christmas and ramps up for the New Year, renewables, flexibility, and smart network management take centre stage. In this festive deep dive, we share curious tales of winter demand, green Christmas miracles, and what they reveal about the future of a decarbonised grid.
December 17, 2025
What are DUoS Charges & Why They Matter
Distribution Use of System (DUoS) charges are the fees paid for using local electricity networks, but they’re far more than a line on a bill. DUoS underpins how Distribution Network Operators recover costs, shapes price signals across the system, and directly affects what consumers pay as well as how energy projects are developed and valued. Understanding how DUoS works is essential for households, businesses, and developers navigating an evolving, electrified energy system.
December 2, 2025
AC Voltage Variation Studies
As the UK transitions to net zero, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) play a crucial role in stabilising the grid. Before connecting, each project must prove it can safely handle voltage disturbances — that’s where an AC Voltage Variation Study comes in. Using advanced EMT simulations, Blake Clough Consulting assesses how plants respond to short-term over-voltages and ensures compliance with Grid Code limits. Our studies give network operators confidence that systems remain stable, secure, and compliant under real-world conditions.
November 7, 2025
Power Systems Studies For an Evolving Grid
As renewable energy generation increases, power networks are becoming more complex and less stable. Power Systems Studies play a vital role in de-risking renewable projects from feasibility through to energisation. At Blake Clough Consulting, our experts use advanced tools such as DIgSILENT PowerFactory and PSCAD to analyse load flow, fault levels, harmonics, and stability. The result? Clear, compliant, and reliable connection strategies that ensure your project meets grid codes and operates safely within design limits.
November 7, 2025
Grid Connection Feasibility Studies: Understanding the New Landscape after Connections Reform
The Impact Connections Reform will have on Grid Connection Feasibility In recent years, demand for new grid connections has grown significantly, as the UK and international energy markets transition toward cleaner, low-carbon generation. For each of these connections, be it a new renewable project, expanding an existing site, or planning a large demand project such […]
November 3, 2025
DSO Flexibility Markets Transforming GB’s Grid Economics
Great Britain’s DSO flexibility markets are reshaping how electricity is managed, enabling smarter grid operation, cost savings, and greater renewable integration. Discover how these markets work, who can participate, and how Blake Clough Consulting helps clients unlock their value.
October 28, 2025
Q3 2025 Newsletter
Our latest round up of company news, events and projects from Quarter 3 of 2025
October 24, 2025
GB Capacity Market – Your Roadmap
The GB Capacity Market helps keep the lights on by rewarding reliable electricity supply. We break down how it works, what bidding involves, the annual cycle, and what happens after a contract is won.
September 13, 2025