CATOs – Competitively Appointed Transmission Owners
The introduction of the Competitively Appointed Transmission Owner (CATO) regime marks a major shift in how transmission infrastructure projects could be delivered across Great Britain. Developed over more than a decade through Ofgem's ITPR and ECIT programmes, the CATO framework aims to introduce competition into the delivery of eligible onshore transmission assets, helping to support the UK's transition to a cleaner, more resilient electricity network. As the first CATO projects move closer to implementation, understanding the regulatory framework, technical requirements, and opportunities for stakeholders has never been more important.
June 5, 2026
CMP446 Explained
CMP446 raises the TIA threshold from 1MW to 5MW in England and Wales, streamlining grid connections for sub-5MW distributed generation projects. By removing unnecessary transmission impact assessments, CMP446 reduces delays, lowers costs, and creates faster routes to market for developers. But what does this mean for projects already in the pipeline and how will it affect larger schemes? Here’s what developers need to know.
March 3, 2026
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
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
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
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
The Role of Active Network Management (ANM) in Enabling a Decentralised, Carbon-Neutral Grid
Active Network Management (ANM) is central to building a decentralised, carbon-neutral grid, helping the system adapt to rising demand and renewable integration. By monitoring and optimising distributed assets in real time, ANM ensures stability and flexibility, paving the way for a resilient net-zero energy future.
August 21, 2025
Power Systems Innovation: Meeting the Network Challenges of Net Zero
Power Systems Innovation is at the heart of the UK’s journey to Net Zero. As grid conditions become more complex and less predictable, innovative tools, technologies, and approaches are essential to ensure stability, resilience, and effective renewable integration. Read on to find out more.
July 22, 2025