Distribution network operator DEDDIE/HEDNO has decided to push for a revision of evaluation criteria concerning connection term applications for solar energy projects following talks with sector professionals, the objective being to unblock thousands of project applications by next summer.

The operator is expected to forward to the energy ministry during the week – if it has not done so already – its proposal for revisions to a related ministerial decision implemented last March concerning prioritization and assessment methods for connection-term applications.

The proposed revisions would give DEDDIE/HEDNO flexibility to also examine applications on a more localized scale, at municipal level, not just on a bigger provincial level, as is the case at present.

In other words, DEDDIE/HEDNO wants connection-term application decisions to be based on the availability of grid capacity at a municipal level, as opposed to requiring investors to wait in line for approval by provincial authorities.

If the operator’s proposed changes are implemented, then thousands of PV connection-term applications could be processed, for approval or rejection, over the next ten or so months.

Current rules have prompted an accumulation of these applications at DEDDIE/HEDNO.