UK Steel - House of Lords submission to the inquiry on 'The Energy Grid and Grid Connections'

28 February 2025

UK Steel welcomes this inquiry into the energy grid and grid connections, given the urgent need for reforms to the electricity network connections process to facilitate the transition to a clean energy system and achieve decarbonisation goals. The lack of network connections has threatened investment into new electric arc furnaces in the steel industry and jeopardised the transition away from blast furnaces to low-carbon steel production. This continues to be a problem for the steel industry as it seeks to electrify parts of its production processes further. In addition to reforming the connection queue, the UK must significantly increase investment in electricity network infrastructure, including transmission capacity. This is crucial to support the connection of new renewable generation and ensure the reliable delivery of power to industrial users.