National Grid Introduces “Step Zero” Process for Larger Developments

The demands on our electrical grid are increasingly impactful, and it has left more uncertainty in the utility design process for new developments. In general, National Grid seeks to ensure that any service area does not exceed a load up to 75% of normal summer ratings, with 25% headroom required to prevent frequent outages and service problems. Developments that would result in the service area exceeding 75% thresholds may require upgrades.

At a meeting with the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Massachusetts (HBRAMA) Utilities Subcommittee on December 11, 2025, National Grid unveiled its “Step Zero” process to expedite feasibility and design for larger projects, and to determine utility costs for the development.

Projects requiring more than 200kW loads are likely subject to the Step Zero process. Translated, if a development exceeds 33 or more units, the developer or developer’s representative should contact National Grid at 1-800-375-7405 to initiate Step Zero. National Grid will then determine within three weeks whether there is sufficient capacity in the area to retain the 25% buffer. If not, then the utility will require a “Distribution Study.” The developer will be charged for the cost of the study (which is project specific but can range up to $50,000), however, this payment will be later applied to the cost of installing electrical service assuming the project is built.

If deemed necessary, the Distribution Study will be performed by National Grid and will take two-to-six months to complete depending on the size and complexity of the development. If the Distribution Study determines that improvements are needed, National Grid will then proceed to drafting engineering drawings for the necessary utility improvements. The developer will be responsible for the cost of the engineering drawings, which will also be applied to the utility improvement cost if the project moves forward. The drafting of the utility drawings is estimated to take an additional four-to-six months to complete. Once the engineering drawings are complete, National Grid will pursue permits for the necessary improvements and the developer will be responsible for a pro-rated portion of the improvement cost based on the size of the project.

Noted is that National Grid does not require the Step Zero process for smaller residential projects.

HBRAMA understands that electrical capacity issues have the potential to add substantial time and costs to residential projects, which may impact the feasibility of construction. We strongly encourage developers and electrical contractors to utilize the on-line “Self-Serve Heat Maps,” available at systemdataportal.nationalgrid.com/MA to view their parcel’s current load. The site can also show previous customers in the queue, to better understand if your development may trip their feeder capacity limits.

A copy of the PDF from National Grid that explains the new Step Zero process can be download here.

In our recent conversations with National Grid, HBRAMA has also recommended that National Grid explore less expensive alternatives for new 400-amp services. National Grid’s connections have limited space, which has caused them to prohibit issuing permits for parallel service conductors. While the utility has advocated copper connections, these are expensive runs for our members. We have suggested a variety of hardware alternatives to National Grid for their consideration in an effort to curb expenses and preserve profit margins for our members. HBRAMA has also raised this issue with Eversource. We will provide a further update once available.

If you are having specific problem on a development with National Grid or Eversource, please send an email to admin@hbrama.com describing the specific concern along with the address of the property and the Work Order # assigned by the utility.

HBRAMA Utilities Subcommittee Member Mark Palermo assisted with composing this report.