Eighteen months after its successful launch, we've introduced an expanded range of capabilities for our ‘Self-Serve Connections’ platform. Self-Serve Connections has already made it quicker and easier for thousands of people to begin the process of connecting to the network.

Self-Serve Connections platform, which was launched in April 2025, has asked users a few simple questions to enable the generation of an initial estimate for the costs of a new connection.

Now, the improved platform is also able to help people looking to:

  • upgrade an existing connection

  • move their electricity meter

  • connect microgeneration, like rooftop solar panels or a domestic wind turbine

At the heart of Self-Serve Connections is the provision of a clear, quick idea of the potential costs associated with connecting to the network, or upgrading an existing connection. By providing this clarity, we're supporting the process of adopting low-carbon technologies, and the use of more clean power. The tool can provide some initial estimates in as little as two minutes.

Since it was launched, Self-Serve Connections has been used by more than 11 thousand people seeking information about changes or improvements to their network connection. Four-and-a-half thousand initial estimates have been generated, more than half of which went on to become formal quotations that have been taken forward.  

A simple, user-friendly process

Self-Serve Connections asks a few simple questions to generate an initial estimate for customers.

For new connections, people will be asked how many properties they’re looking to connect, and to indicate whether these are houses or flats. Using a postcode search tool, the customer can then draw on a map the site boundary, where the cable would enter the site, the meter position, and the cable route. They’ll also asked if they plan to install an EV charger, and if the central heating will be gas or electric.

For changes to existing connections, or to provide greater capacity to support new equipment or a home extension, details can be submitted about the type of any microgeneration equipment to be installed, or the location of where items are to be relocated. 

With all this information, the system can then generate an estimate there and then or invite users to get in touch if more information is needed. In this event, one of our expert advisors will be on hand to support people through the rest of the process. 

Responding to greater demand for connections to the network

The move towards greater electrification within communities means demand for power is growing. Requests for connections are increasing, and there’s a need for more power as people choose to use cost-effective heat pumps, EVs and solar panels.

The ability to process straightforward connections projects via the Self-Serve tool means the dedicated support we provide to customers can be focused on those schemes requiring more complex design work.

Eliane Algaard, SSEN Distribution’s Services Director says:

“We’re committed to making the process of connecting to the network as straightforward, and as speedy as possible. To do this, we’re harnessing the power of smart technology - and looking very closely at what our customers expect from us - to expand the capabilities of the Self-Serve Connections tool. 

“The ability to offer customers accurate estimates more quickly and more easily has already transformed this process for several thousand of our customers, and it’s delivered benefits for our business too.

“These new functions will mean customers who already have a connection, but who need an upgrade, can also benefit from the streamlined processes we’ve developed.”