eSmart Networks have always been able to optimise and build your connection to the local DNO network. Now, working together with our IDNO sister company, we can potentially find a faster and more cost-effective alternative.
As a trusted Independent Connection Provider, eSmart Networks will manage all technical and legal requirements of the connection and adoption process to ensure the timely delivery of your project.
Speak with our expert team today and discuss your current and future projects.
eSmart Networks has redefined the meaning of turnkey solutions for renewable connections. We help to initiate projects, challenge assumptions and value engineer solutions. Through effective collaboration we not only deliver your project, we also strive to deliver on your organisation’s goals and ambitions.
The early engagement of eSmart Networks means we can help define the optimal connection architecture for your project.
Our Grid Connections Team includes expert engineers that have joined us from transmission and distribution system operators. This deep knowledge and experience, coupled with our various licences and accreditations mean we can support our customers through the entire project life cycle.
Unfettered access to network maps and schematics allows us to effectively model power flows and identify pockets of capacity on the DNO networks.
Once we have engaged with the DNO on our customer’s behalf, we can interrogate connection offers and identify alternatives.
Without compromising on quality or the requirements of your project, we can then value engineer the preferred solution to ensure the least-cost, technically robust solution is adopted.
Our ability to model grid capacity and our understanding of the regulatory framework under which the Distribution System Operators work, makes eSmart Networks the ideal ICP partner for your renewable energy and BESS projects.
Early involvement enables our dedicated legal team to begin discussions on wayleaves and easements, our Grid Team to identify opportunities and mitigate risks and our civil and electrical Design Teams to value engineer connections while reducing timescales.
The expertise within our Grid Connections Team and across eSmart Networks and the wider Group, ensures that your project is in good hands, that the DNO/IDNO will be effectively managed and that the best solution will be identified for a successful energisation.
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.
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).
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.
An Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) is a certified organisation that has a broader role compared to an Independent Connection Provider (ICP). Once the IDNO constructs a regional electricity network, it retains ownership of the local network and assumes responsibility for maintenance as well as round-the-clock fault repairs.
National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS). As part of an ongoing process to introduce competition to the electrical service market, eSmart Networks operate 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.