UK Power Networks has created a tool to make it easier for installers to connect clean technologies to homes and businesses.

The Smart Connect portal will give companies an instant decision on whether they can connect domestic electric vehicle charge points, heat pumps, battery storage or solar PV, to the local electricity network, removing the need for paper forms.

the new platform is a result of listening to customer feedback on vehicle-to-grid projects and UK Power Networks worked with partner Octopus Electric Vehicles on the project. The service is designed to make life easier for specialist installers of low carbon technologies, and help domestic customers ensure their electricity supply is ready to connect them. The new portal will automatically refer customers if their electricity supply needs to be upgraded to manage the additional power. Installers will also be able to see the current status of multiple applications at the click of a button.

UK Power Networks is forecasting up to 700,000 electric heat pumps and 4.5 million electric vehicles connected to its networks covering London, the East and South East by 2030, and Albena Ivanova, Powerloop project manager at Octopus Electric Vehicles said: “Smart Connect is a huge step forward for the decentralisation and digitalisation of the grid. The launch of the portal will be a game changer for customers and installers alike, making the connection assessment and process fast and transparent. The simplified documentation required from customers along with the high level of visibility of the application progress will markedly improve the customer experience.”

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