Powering Growth: Unlocking Grid Connections
Wednesday 20 May 2026
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Hosted by Brian Moorhead, Grid Solutions Director at eSmart Networks, the session will look at how grid constraints are influencing development timelines, investment decisions and site viability across the UK, while focusing on the practical steps being taken to move projects forward.
Joining the panel:
- Lindsey Ions, Head of Pre Construction, Urban & Civic
- Emma Spotwood, Utilities Manager, Harworth Group
- Dave Brend, Energy Director, SEGRO
The discussion will bring together perspectives from across the development lifecycle, from early-stage planning through to delivery. Alongside outlining the challenges such as long lead times, rising costs and limited capacity, the panel will share how these are being overcome in practice.
This includes earlier engagement with grid strategy, more informed decision-making at site acquisition stage, and closer collaboration between developers, Independent Connection Providers (ICPs) and Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs) to unlock viable solutions.
With demand for power continuing to grow across sectors such as industrial and commercial developments and EV infrastructure, securing a grid connection is becoming a defining factor in whether projects move forward.
If you are attending UKREiiF, join us for a focused and practical discussion on not just the challenges, but the actions being taken to overcome them and keep projects on track.
