ICPs and NERS: what they mean for your new connection
Who can build a new electricity connection, and how to check they are accredited to do it.
Two kinds of connection work
When a new site needs power, the work splits into two parts. Ofgem calls them non-contestable and contestable work.
Non-contestable work stays with the local distribution network operator (DNO). It includes giving the point of connection, designing any reinforcement of the existing network and, on larger HV and EHV jobs, the final testing and connection to the DNO's network.
Contestable work can be done by the DNO, by an independent distribution network operator (IDNO) or by an independent connection provider (ICP). It covers jobs such as designing the new connection, trenching, laying cable and installing switchgear and transformers. Once the work is finished, the DNO or IDNO adopts the new assets and owns them from then on.
What an ICP is
An ICP is a contractor accredited to build contestable connection works to the network operator's standards. Using one lets you choose who builds that part of the job and get a competing price for it. The DNO still carries out and charges for the non-contestable work, and that charge is the same whichever route you choose.
What NERS is
The National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) is how a contractor becomes an ICP. LRQA runs it on behalf of the UK DNOs, and any provider that wants to do contestable work, as Ofgem defines it, must be accredited under the scheme.
Each accreditation lists the scopes of work the provider may carry out, such as civil works or cable laying and jointing, and the voltages those scopes cover.
How to check a contractor
LRQA publishes a search of accredited providers and their current accreditation. Before you appoint anyone for contestable work, look them up and check that their scopes match the voltage and the type of work on your scheme.
Where Ground Utilities fits
Ground Utilities is a NERS accredited power and civils contractor based at Highdrove Farm in Cottenham, Cambridgeshire. We do the work in-house with our own equipment. Recent projects include two 33kV cable circuits over about 25 km between a DNO substation and a client substation, five 33kV circuits with fibre optic protection for a new data centre in North London, and a 6 km cable route at Thetford.
To see whether our scopes fit your scheme, look us up on the LRQA register or send us the details. You can also call us on 01223 423918.
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We specialise in the construction and management of electricity, water, and telecoms installations, within the spectrum of infrastructure engineering services
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