Connecting Your Dream London Home To The Electricity Grid

Many see the idea of building their own homes as a dream come true. A chance to make a home for yourself that’s built entirely around your needs, priorities and lifestyle. And for a bold few, that dream might just become a reality. However, when you set out building your own home from scratch, it fast becomes apparent just how many logistical plates you need to keep spinning, and how challenging it can be to keep your project on budget.

Connecting your new property to the National Grid will be one of the last steps you take before your dream becomes a reality. But it’s one of the most important steps that you’ll have to take. If you’re working with Building Vision London electricians, we’ll take care of it all for you. If not, here’s how it works.

How do I connect to the grid?

The good folks over at Switch-Plan have a useful guide that details how to set up a new National Grid connection. They can also help you to save money from the day you connect by choosing the right energy supplier and tariff for your new connection.

The National Grid doesn’t deal directly with new connections, so don’t bother contacting them. Responsibility for new connections lies with local Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). These are also known as Electrical Systems Operators (ESOs).

Yours will depend on the area where you live, as you can see below.

  • North Scotland- Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks
  • Central and Southern Scotland- SP Energy Networks
  • North East England and Yorkshire- Northern Powergrid
  • North West England- Electricity North West
  • Merseyside, Cheshire, North Wales & North Shropshire- SP Energy Networks
  • East Midlands & West Midlands- Western Power Distribution
  • South Wales & South West England- Western Power Distribution
  • London, South East England & Eastern England- UK Power Networks
  • Southern England- Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks
  • Northern Ireland- Northern Ireland Electricity Networks

How long does it take to connect to the grid?

Once you contact your local DNO to arrange a new connection, it usually takes around 3 or 4 days to get a quote.

On average it takes around 6 weeks from the date of payment for a new connection to get set up.

How much does it cost to connect to the grid?

The cost of a new connection depends on the size of your property, where you want your new electric meter, and your DNO. However, the average cost of a new connection is around £1,790. You may be able to save money by asking your DNO which parts of the job are contestable. This means that they don’t have to carry out the work themselves, it can be carried out by a registered contractor in your area which may save you money.

Do I need to arrange a separate connection for gas?

Yes. While the process is much the same, you’ll need to get in touch with your local gas transporter, A new gas connection typically costs between £300 and £600.

Don’t forget to find the best energy supplier in your area to ensure that you enjoy cheaper, greener energy in your brand new home from day one!