ACER to consult on amendments to the electricity grid connection network code
What is it about?
In the context of the ongoing revisions of the European grid connection network codes, ACER will consult with stakeholders (during summer 2024) to collect views on ACER’s concrete amendment proposals to the network code on grid connection requirements for high voltage direct current systems and related power park modules (NC HVDC).
What are the electricity grid connection network codes?
Network codes are binding rules governing connection requirements to the electricity networks in an effective and transparent manner. The codes are key for ensuring the safety of system operation and the efficiency of the EU's power grid.
There are three electricity grid connection network codes:
- The network code on requirements for grid connection of generators (RfG Regulation) establishes common standards for generators to connect to the grid.
- The network code on demand connection (DCC Regulation) sets up harmonised requirements for demand facilities to connect to the grid.
- The network code on requirements for grid connection of high voltage direct current systems (HVDC Regulation) covers the definition of harmonised standards for direct current (DC) connections.
Why change the rules?
The electricity grid connection codes were established in 2009, with the HVDC Regulation entering into force in 2016. Important developments to decarbonise the European energy and transport sectors happened since then:
- September 2022: ACER initiated the amendment process of the existing European grid connection network codes, as requested by the European Commission.
- December 2023: after consulting with stakeholders, ACER submitted to the European Commission its Recommendation 03-2023 proposing amendments to two grid connection network codes (on requirements for grid connection of generators and on demand connection).
- December 2023: the final report of the Grid Connection European Stakeholder Committee’s Expert Group on Connection Requirements for Offshore Systems was released (proposing amendments to the NC HVDC).
- End of 2024: ACER will submit to the European Commission its recommendation on proposed amendments to the third grid connection network code (the NC HVDC).
The revisions to the NC HVDC aim to:
- Enhance the existing grid connection regulatory framework.
- Align the code with the network codes on requirements for grid connection of generators and on demand connection.
- Ensure the interconnected system is adapted to emerging trends, such as the increasing generation capacity of offshore networks (AC hubs) and the connection of new system users (storage, demand facilities).
Have your say!
To inform its drafting of the amendment proposal to the NC HVDC, ACER will:
- run a public consultation from 17 June until 8 September 2024;
- hold a webinar on 24 June 2024 (09:30 – 11:00 CET).