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The Transmission Access Review will recommend changes to the overall framework that will better deliver the connection of renewable generation, taking into account the potential for reduced carbon emissions, cost to the consumer and the impact on security of supply. The time needed to make the essential investments in infrastructure means that many schemes have projected connection dates years from now.

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks said:

?There are currently around 12GW of projects seeking connection in Scotland along with many more in other parts of the UK. This is enough capacity to make a significant contribution toward the Governments aspiration of 20% of electricity coming from renewable sources by 2020.

?Getting more green electricity connected to the grid is essential if we are to burn less fossil fuels. This review will help us to ensure that renewable generators can supply more low carbon electricity as quickly as possible.?

The current technical, commercial and regulatory framework for the delivery of new transmission infrastructure will be considered. The review will also look at how the grid is managed to ensure that it remains fit for purpose as the proportion of renewable generation in the system grows.

Ofgem Chief Executive, Alistair Buchanan, said:

?Ofgem has already approved ?5 billion investment in Britain's energy transmission networks over the next five years which will help link more renewables to the grid and continue high performance and reliability of energy transmission. However, extra infrastructure to connect renewables takes time to build and there may be steps we can take now to change existing arrangements which will allow more projects to get connected faster.?

The Review will set out proposals for changes to the framework for transmission access in order to better support the connection of renewable generation to the grid. It will look ahead to 2020 and consider ways to support the delivery of the government's aspiration of 20% of electricity supplied by renewable generation and any targets that may be agreed at European Union level

The launch of the review is one of the key renewable energy actions of the Energy White Paper which was published in May. A final report on grid connection will be published in May 2008 setting out progress of the review in identifying the need for new legislation and any reforms that may be required.