eSmart Networks are experts in delivering grid connections for the UK commercial sector. With businesses expanding and transitioning to sustainable energy solutions, managing power demands and securing reliable connections are critical challenges.
As a market-leading Independent Connection Provider (ICP), eSmart Networks have the in-house expertise and proficiency to help Commercial Developers connect to the grid in the most cost-effective and time efficient way.
One of the key factors in the successful delivery of our projects is the early-stage engagement with our clients. When your grid connection is likely to be the critical path risk to your overall Commercial projects.
Don’t leave it to luck, leave it to the experts.
Working closely with our specialist Grid team, we analyse the network data to secure your capacity, meet your power requirements and advise on electricity supply for both current and future demand.
We then design and construct your grid connection, from developing a concept design, to delivering a detailed project plan that caters to your current and future energy needs.
Our team have the expertise to pinpoint suitable locations for the distribution and transmission of electricity supply, through designing, constructing and commissioning the network infrastructure.
Developers face many challenges as they plan a development from inception, manage the design, engage with relevant stakeholders and see the project through all stages, working with third parties, to completion.
We analyse the DNO network to secure the most cost effective connection point, while identifying third-party land constraints such as rivers, motorways and railways that could impact cable routes and put your programme at risk.
A cost-effective solution, ensuring the correct DNO/IDNO grid infrastructure has been designed for your project requirements.
A crucial element for the effective execution of our projects involves engaging with our clients at project inception.
Participating in a project from its conceptual design phase enables us to oversee and coordinate utility interactions, leading to a substantial reduction in both design and procurement timeframes.
Involving our sister business, Advanced Electricity Networks, from the concept stage enables confident budgeting and reduces third-party risks.
Their in-house legal team accelerates consents, while standardised designs and equipment enable faster approvals and early procurement with minimal changes.
Our highly skilled and experienced construction team plan the construction works to ensure the connection is completed in line with your development programme.
Throughout the build process our project managers will keep you fully informed of progress on site, from pre-site start activity through to energisation and beyond. And our on-site teams will deliver the project with the highest health and safety standards throughout.
As a NERS-accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP), we ensure your project is connected to the grid swiftly and cost-effectively.
Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about what we do and how we do it. Whether you’re new to independent connection grid connections or need some detailed guidance, our FAQs are here to help.
As an Independent Connections Provider (ICP), we help connect a range of projects to the grid. We work closely with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNO) to make sure everything is safe, reliable, and up to UK standards.
Browse this section for answers and tips on your connection needs.
We use our experience and expertise to negotiate with the DNO, providing a cost-effective connection, and securing the capacity for your project. Design, Construct, through to Energisation. Producing a concept design, to a fully detailed project plan that caters to your current and future energy needs.
An Independent Connections Provider (ICP) refers to a recognized company capable of constructing electricity networks to meet the specific standards and quality necessary for acceptance by either a DNO, like UK Power Networks, or an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO).
An Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) is a certified organisation with a broader role compared to an Independent Connection Provider (ICP). The ICP is responsible for constructing the electrical infrastructure and making the necessary connections. Once the IDNO takes over, it assumes ownership of the regional electricity network and is responsible for its ongoing maintenance, as well as handling fault repairs around the clock.
National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS). As part of an ongoing process to introduce competition to the electrical service market, eSmart Networks operates under the National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) on behalf of the UK Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). NERS is managed by Lloyds Accreditation.
Contestable Works: Connection works that can be carried out by eSmart Networks an Independant Connections Provider (ICP). You have a choice when deciding who shall complete these elements of your connection.
Non-Contestable Works: These are connection works that must be performed exclusively by the host Distribution Network Operator (DNO). In order to ensure the safety and reliability of the distribution network. Furthermore, as an ICP, you cannot select another entity to carry out these specific aspects of your connection. As a result, it is required by law for the DNO to handle them.
In the UK, “high voltage” (HV) refers to electrical voltage levels above the standard home voltage of 230 volts. It is commonly used in industrial applications, power transmission, and distribution networks.
High voltage systems are regulated by organisations like National Grid Electricity Transmission and local distribution network operators. Subsequently ensuring safe, reliable transmission and distribution of electricity, consequently following safety standards and regulations.
EHV stands for Extra High Voltage. It refers to the highest voltage levels used in electrical power transmission systems, ranging from 345 kV to 1200 kV. Providing the long distance delivery of electricity with reduced losses.
