Grid Connections for a Net-Zero Future: a collaborative workshop with AEMO on overcoming challenges and unlocking flexibility

Achieving net-zero emissions demands a fundamental rethinking of how energy systems operate. This project brought together the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and UK stakeholders to explore challenges and solutions around grid connections and demand-side flexibility. Hosted at Newcastle University, the workshop gathered experts from academia, industry, and policy to exchange experiences and identify pathways for more equitable and efficient grid access. Discussions focused on international best practices, innovative approaches to managing connection queues, and strategies to integrate flexibility into system operation. Insights from the workshop are being synthesised into a white paper that will outline actionable recommendations for grid reform and inform ongoing policy discussions within the UK.

The project aimed to:

• Facilitate knowledge exchange between AEMO and UK stakeholders on grid connections and flexibility.
• Identify adaptable strategies for managing connection challenges.
• Build international partnerships and inform UK grid reforms.

Following the workshop, the objectives evolved to include developing a white paper to capture insights and recommendations.

The project employed a collaborative, multi-phase approach:

• Preparation: Co-developing the agenda with AEMO and UK partners.
• Workshop: Hosting an event at Newcastle University with expert panels and roundtable discussions on grid reform and demand flexibility.
• Synthesis: Capturing insights to inform the forthcoming white paper.

The workshop highlighted shared global challenges in accelerating grid connections amidst growing renewable deployment. Key takeaways included the importance of transparency in connection processes, early-stage data sharing between operators and developers, and integrating flexibility as a system-wide asset. AEMO’s approach demonstrated how digitalisation and coordinated planning can reduce connection delays. UK stakeholders emphasised the need for governance alignment and regulatory innovation. These findings are forming the basis of a white paper on reforming grid connections and enabling flexibility for a just and efficient energy transition.

The project team is finalising a white paper that synthesises insights from the workshop and provides actionable policy and research recommendations.