Post by Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV)

Our colleague Sofia Gonçalves, Development at FRV UK, participated on June 30th as a speaker at the UK Solar Summit | Clean Power 2030, joining the panel discussion "Grid Connection Planning – Gate 1 Offers and Developer Strategies."   The session explored the impact of Gate 1 connection offers on renewable energy projects and the strategies developers can adopt to successfully navigate the evolving grid connection landscape. Discussions covered the implications of connection offer decisions for project planning, approaches to reapplications, and opportunities to secure alternative grid connections.   Bringing together industry leaders, regulators, and system operators, the panel also provided valuable insights into how grid access is prioritised and the key factors influencing project delivery—helping developers prepare for future connection windows and maintain project momentum. Alongside Sofia, the panel featured:   - James Innes, Head of UK Development, Elmya (Moderator) - Sarah Lightfoot, Head of Development, Root Power - Hugh Gilmour MRICS, Head of Development, Telis Energy UK - Chris Coates, Origination & Engineering Lead, Downing - Tom Blackwood, Investment Manager, Octopus Energy Generation   Sofia's participation highlights FRV's commitment to contributing to key industry discussions and supporting the development of a more resilient and efficient renewable energy sector in the UK.