Timescales for connection

If planning permission is not required for a generation connection :

• Average time for connection is between 6- 9 months, if plant and equipment is to be ordered. The lead-in time for major items of plant and equipment can be up to 20 weeks.
• Where NIE needs to install equipment on third party property, legal consent in the form of a wayleave agreement and/or easement is required from the relevant landowner. Timescales to obtain landowner approval depends on the landowner’s willingness to sign the legal documents.
• Where a substation is required a substation lease must be obtained.

 If planning permission is required: 

• Planning Permission required for construction of any overhead line greater than 100m in length.
• Turnaround time for planning permission approx 4 - 6 months.
• Average time for connection is approx 9 to 12 months following acceptance of terms.

Please note that these timescale are subject to NIE being able to secure legalities such as wayleaves, easements, substation leases and planning permission.