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Applying to a DNO for a connection: what to have ready

By Saqib Shah · · 5 min read

Contestable and non-contestable connection workA single-line style sketch from network to point of connection to customer transformer and load, above two boxes: work only the network operator does, and work an accredited provider can also do. Who does what on a connectionContestable work can be done by an accredited provider. Non-contestable work stays with the network operator.NetworkPoint ofconnectionCustomertransformerLoadNetwork operator onlyProcesses the applicationEnergises the connectionInspects and tests the contestable workAccredited provider or network operatorNetwork designEquipment and constructionLegal consentsPoint of connection, under thecode of practice

TL;DR. A connection application goes to the distribution network operator, which then offers a connection and, for much of the work, lets you choose between the network operator and an accredited provider. Each network operator publishes its own minimum information. From 1 June 2026, demand applications of 5 MVA and above need extra evidence of project maturity. Read your network operator’s current requirements before you start, because they change.

What is a DNO connection application?

It is a request to the distribution network operator for a new or modified connection to its network. The network operator replies with a quotation or offer, and the quotation sets out the options for who does the work and what it costs. Some network operators also offer a budget estimate or a feasibility study before a full quotation, so ask which one fits the stage your project has reached.

Generation also needs the G98 or G99 forms alongside the application. We cover that in our G98 or G99 guide .

Which work is contestable?

Contestable work is work an accredited contractor can carry out. Non-contestable work must be done by the network operator. One network operator lists contestable work as including network design, equipment procurement, trenching, construction, metering provision and legal consents. Non-contestable work includes processing applications, energising connections, operating and maintaining equipment, and inspecting or testing the contestable work.

Each network operator sets the scope of what competitors may do in its own connection charging methodology, so the exact line varies. Check your network operator’s current documents.

What is the point of connection option?

It is an option on the quotation where the network operator does only the non-contestable work and you appoint an accredited provider for the rest. Determining the point of connection used to be technically non-contestable, and it has been opened up to competition under the competition in connections code of practice. Accredited design providers can hold a self-determination of point of connection scope under NERS, which we describe in what the NERS assessor looks for .

What information does a network operator ask for?

It depends on the type of quotation. One network operator’s published minimum information includes, for most quotation types:

  • your contact details and the site address and postcode, with coordinates or What3Words;
  • site plans showing the boundary, buildings and access roads, the proposed meter point, and a substation location for loads over 300 kVA.

For a full detailed quotation it adds the maximum import and export capacity in kVA, a load breakdown where possible, a preferred connection date, details of any generator or storage device and of equipment likely to disturb the supply, and a letter of authority if you act as an agent.

Other network operators have their own forms and thresholds. Use theirs.

What changed for demand of 5 MVA and above?

For new applications on or after 1 June 2026, demand connections of 5 MVA and above need to show more project maturity. Ofgem set the expectation in an update on 6 November 2025, and the Energy Networks Association published the minimum information that implements it. A law firm’s summary lists:

  1. A letter of authority, where the applicant acts for the customer or landowner, signed by all parties within 12 months before the application and stating start and expiry dates.
  2. Heads of terms, where the applicant is not the current landowner or leaseholder and the site is identified for development.
  3. A site plan showing the site boundary and key features.
  4. A single line diagram, where customer equipment could affect network quality or stability.
  5. A preliminary project timeline with a requested connection date and realistic interim milestones. “As soon as possible” and “to be confirmed” are not accepted.

The same summary says network operators will not hold applicants to the dates in the timeline. Treat the detail above as a guide and read the ENA and network operator documents for the exact wording.

How long does a quotation stay valid?

It varies, so read the date on your own quotation. A published Northern Powergrid quotation from June 2017 says it is valid for acceptance for 90 days from its date, and offers a choice between full works and the point of connection option. Other quotations carry a fixed expiry date. Diarise the date as soon as the quotation arrives.

What should a design consultancy do first?

  • Confirm with the client who holds the land interest, and get a letter of authority and heads of terms in order before you submit.
  • Draft the site plan and, where it is needed, the single line diagram early. They are the documents everyone asks for.
  • Ask the network operator which quotation type fits the stage of the project.
  • Record the quotation date, validity period and any acceptance steps where your whole team can see them.

Engineering decisions, such as the connection voltage and capacity, stay with the responsible engineer and the network operator. This guide covers the paperwork, not the design.

Sources

Accessed 14 October 2026.

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