The fifth round of the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme has opened to applications today (Thursday 30th March 2023). The application window will close on 24th April 2023.

Allocation Round 5 (AR5) is the first CfD round to run annually, instead of every two years. Government has listened to industry and doubled the frequency of CfD rounds, shifting to annual auctions. This will help accelerate the deployment of low carbon electricity in GB, support the UK’s climate ambitions and strengthen British energy security. The Government announced the budget for AR5 on 16th March – you can read more about the budget details here.

For more information on how to apply please refer to National Grid ESO’s Application Guidance. 

Please refer to the AR5 timeline published here.