The Connections Gap: Why Connection Cost Uncertainty is Holding Back I&C Demand

To help address distribution-level challenges, ADE: Demand has launched a flagship project in 2026 to provide robust data on connection costs, timelines, and user experiences through a series of in-depth case studies.  

ADE: Demand has now published a connections paper on what distribution-level reform and cost transparency must deliver for Industrial & Commercial demand. Key points include: 

• Connection costs vary widely by DNO region and project type, with little publicly available data to explain why. For industrial users already facing high capital and operating costs to electrify, this opacity is itself a barrier and helps explain why many sites are not pursuing grid connections at all.
• A more strategic, whole-system approach is needed. Regional Energy Strategic Plans offer a route to align industrial demand, network investment, and spatial planning - but only if backed by sustained government commitment and a requirement to map connection cost drivers at a granular level.
• Ultimately, ADE: Demand’s connections costs project aims to improve transparency, predictability, and fairness in grid connection costs for I&C users, reducing barriers to dispersed site electrification and enabling investment, productivity, and jobs.

Credit to Ocean Fay - full paper can be accessed below.