On 22 October, DSO Entity released a new report, “Digital Solutions for Handling Connection Requests”, drafted by its Task Force Digitalisation of the Energy System (TF DESAP). The report explores how digitalisation and process innovation are transforming the way Distribution System Operators (DSOs) manage connection requests across Europe.
Drawing on case studies and structured inputs from DSOs, the report highlights how digital tools are helping to reduce processing times and backlogs, improve transparency, and enhance customer experience. It also underlines that challenges remain—particularly regarding permitting, cross-stakeholder coordination and supply chain constraints—which continue to impact timelines beyond the digital domain.
Key findings emphasise that:
- Rising demand from electrification and sector coupling is reshaping connection needs and emphasising the strategic importance of proactive grid planning, capacity management, and automation.
- Digitalisation is enabling faster and more transparent processes, though complementary regulatory and technical measures are still required.
- Diversity in national processes remains essential to address regional needs and user profiles.
- Efficiency and inclusiveness must go hand in hand, ensuring equitable access to connection services for all users.
- Transparent queue management schemes are critical to fairness and non-discrimination, while prioritisation criteria remain the responsibility of national regulators.
“Digitalisation is key to managing the increasing complexity of grid connections in an electrified Europe,” said members from the Task Force DESAP. “By leveraging innovative tools and cooperative approaches, DSOs can ensure transparent, efficient, and inclusive connection processes.”
To conclude, successful digitalisation requires robust business cases, strong governance, and collaborative alignment among System Operators, regulators, and stakeholders.
Read the full report here.
For further information, please contact our experts:
Omar Huarcaya (Omar.Huarcaya@eudsoentity.eu) and Ostins Gailis (Ostins.Gailis@eudsoentity.eu).