When more than one application is received to connect and make use of the same part of our network, a process called Interactivity can happen. It ensures a fair and transparent approach to managing applications. Find out more about how it works below.
Sometimes, we receive more than one application to connect to the same part of our network at the same time. In some cases, not all applications can be accepted, and the outcome of one application can affect another.
To manage this fairly, we follow an the Interactivity process set out by the Energy Networks Association (ENA). This ensures consistency across all Distribution Network Operators (DNO’s). You can find more information about this process on the ENA website.
What Interactivity means for you
If your connection offer is classed as Interactive, it may impact your project’s costs and/or timescales.
Each Interactive application forms part of an Interactive queue, ordered by the date we received a competent application (one that includes all the information we need to progress it).
· Unconditional Offer: Not affected by the outcome of other applications
· Conditional Offer: Dependent on whether earlier applications in the queue are accepted. If an earlier offer is accepted and your connection can no longer be accommodated, your offer will be withdrawn even if you have said you would like to accept it.
The Interactivity Process
Interactivity happens when two or more customers apply to connect in the same area and there isn’t enough available network capacity to accommodate all connections at the same time. In these situations, one connection can impact the ability to deliver another.
If we think your application may be affected by interactivity, we’ll let you know as early as possible. If interactivity is confirmed, your connection offer will have a shorter acceptance period than usual.
Once interactivity is confirmed, we’ll send you a notice showing:
· Your position in the interactive queue
· Whether your offer is Conditional or Unconditional
Your offer validity period will usually be 30 days. If you already have a standard offer that becomes Interactive, the validity period will be reduced to 30 days if more than 30 days remain, or stay the same if less than 30 days remain.
If you choose to accept your offer, you must do so before it expires:
· For Unconditional Offers, submit your acceptance form and payment
· For Conditional Offers, submit your acceptance form but do not make a payment until the outcome of the Interactivity is confirmed to you
Once the interactivity process is complete, we’ll let all affected customers know the outcome and confirm whether your connection offer has been successful as soon as possible.
If an interactive offer reaches its expiry date without being accepted, it will automatically lapse. If you still want to go ahead after an offer has expired, you’ll need to submit a new application where the normal process will apply.
If your Conditional Offer is withdrawn or unsuccessful, you’ll have the chance to reapply.
· If you reapply within 10 working days and don’t change your original application, your original application date may be retained and no additional Connection Offer Expenses (COE) will apply
· If you reapply after 10 working days or make changes to your application, it will be treated as a new application, with a new queue position and COE charges if applicable
