The UK government has published indicative timetable scenarios for Contracts for Difference (CfD) Allocation Round 8 (AR8), outlining a schedule running from June 2026 to spring 2027, depending on the outcome of the qualification process.
The process begins in June 2026 with the publication of Minor and Necessary Modifications guidance and the start of early engagement between prospective applicants and the Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC). Results of the Clean Industry Bonus scheme are scheduled to be published on 29 June 2026.
Key statutory notices, including the Application Window Notice, Pot and Price Notice, Standard Terms Notice, Counterparty Costs Notice and Contract Framework Notice, are due to be published on 6 July 2026, alongside the Contract Allocation Framework and CfD Standard Terms for AR8. A window for Minor and Necessary Modification requests will run from 6 to 10 July.
The main application window will open on 20 July and close on 7 August 2026. The National Energy System Operator (NESO), acting as the Delivery Body, will then assess applications between 10 August and 16 September 2026.
The government has set out five potential pathways following the qualification stage. Under the shortest scenario, where all applicants qualify, contracts could be signed and returned by 31 December 2026. In the longest scenario, where unsuccessful applicants pursue both Tier 1 reviews and Tier 2 appeals to Ofgem, contracts would be signed and returned by 17 March 2027.
Under the longest timetable, Tier 2 appeals would run from 22 October to 18 November 2026, with sealed bids submitted between 3 and 9 December. DESNZ would then undertake budget-setting between 21 December 2026 and 1 February 2027, with final allocation results expected to be notified to applicants between 15 and 17 February 2027.
Across all scenarios, following the sealed bid stage, the process includes independent audit and valuation by NESO, submission of bid information to DESNZ, budget setting, allocation, consideration of the audit report by the Secretary of State and notification of results before contracts are processed and signed.
