We have approved Distribution Connection and Use of System Agreement (DCUSA) DCP406A ‘Access SCR: Changes to CCCM (DCP406A)’, to implement our Access SCR Decision and Direction from 1 April 2023 (the ‘Access Decision’ and ‘Access Direction’). DCP406A seeks to address potential flaws in one current ‘Exception’ (Exception 1) and the need for one new Exception (Exception 5) identified during the process of developing the DCP406 changes to the connection boundary. ‘Exceptions’ set out specific cases where alternative charging arrangements apply.
We published our Decision and associated Direction on the Access and Forward-looking Charges Significant Code Review (Access SCR) in May 2022 (the ‘Access Decision’ and ‘Access Direction’). Our reforms aim to ensure that electricity networks are used efficiently and flexibly, reflecting users’ needs and allowing consumers to benefit from new technologies and services while avoiding unnecessary costs on energy bills in general.
The implementation of the Access reforms will lead to reduced connection charges, and better defined and standardised access right options, enabling more flexible access rights, reducing barriers to entry and supporting the transition to net zero.
DCP406A is part of a suite of five complementary change proposals brought forward for decision by the Authority, which collectively aim to implement the Access Decision. DCP404 and DCP405 were approved on 15 December 2022. DCP406A is being published alongside the closely interrelated DCP406.