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How Can I Connect To An Electricity Network? | UKPN Guide
June 30th, 2021
How can I connect to the electricity network?
An article from UKPN
As an Independent Connection Provider (ICP), we understand that your new electricity connection needs to be delivered in a safe, reliable and cost effective way. We have a long track record throughout the UK of successfully meeting clients’ power requirements through the design and build of electrical infrastructure, from the point of connection to the local distribution network to their onsite infrastructure.
Our Team of Experts
- Are National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) accredited as an independent connection provider for contestable works.
- Provide a nominated Project Manager for every connection so you know someone is always on hand for progress updates and to make sure any questions are dealt with in a timely manner.
- Work collaboratively with our clients to ensure delivery programmes are agreed, progress is regularly monitored and deadlines are met.
- Support customers to develop their requirements, taking account of current needs and future aspirations, supporting business objectives and sustainability goals.
- Apply industry best practice and integrate the latest in emerging technologies to develop connections solutions that encompass grid connection through to onsite infrastructure needs.
- Work closely with the local DNO to ensure seamless delivery of connections on time, every time.
How we can help
As an established ICP, we support our clients to ensure their new connection requirements are safely delivered to the highest standard, on time, in the most cost effective and innovative way.
Our extensive in-house capability, including designers, planners, authorised engineers and project managers are experienced in designing and building complex and essential electricity distribution networks.
In addition to the connection work, we can support you by taking a long term, holistic view of your energy infrastructure. Our range of solutions enable us to provide an end-to-end service to reduce your energy bills, decarbonise your assets and improve the resilience of your electricity network. Whatever your needs we will work with you to deliver a customised solution.
You can trust us. We have been delivering for some of the UK’s most critical electricity infrastructure for over 50 years, including High Speed 1, Network Rail, London Underground, Docklands Light Railway, and EDF (Hinkley Point C). We also deliver for leading UK airports, Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted and London City.
UKPN deliver work associated with a connection to the distribution network, including:
- Cable laying (LV, 11kV, 33kV & 132kV)
- Diversion or reinforcement of LV, 11kV or 33kV circuits
- Diversion or reinforcement of substations
- Erection of new overhead lines
- Installation of substation plant
- Cable jointing and termination
FAQs
How can I arrange connection to the distribution network for a new development?
It’s straightforward, just let us know where your development is and what your requirements are and we will provide you with a proposal for the connection to the distribution network. We will make the necessary arrangements with the local DNO, or IDNO, and ensure any work they have to do is coordinated with our works.
How can I ensure my development capacity requirements are met?
We will work with you to understand your capacity requirements and design the optimum solution to meet those requirements. Our design engineers will work with the local DNO, where necessary, to identify the preferred point of connection to the distribution network to meet your expected demand. We also have experienced in-house consultants who can help you determine the most suitable technical and commercial solution for your entire development if required.
How can I be sure the connection will be energised in line with the site construction programme?
We understand the importance of meeting the delivery programme for connection to the distribution network for a new development. Our experienced designers, planners and engineers work closely with you, and your partners, from outline design through to construction on site to ensure your deadlines are achieved.
How can I reduce the cost of Connection to the distribution network?
By utilising our local in-house resources and an efficient and effective supply chain, our ICP Solution Offering is a competitive alternative to other providers. We ensure our proposal for the connection to the distribution network includes for the most cost effective design whilst also ensuring resilience and quality is maintained.
How can I be sure the electrical infrastructure is built to the optimum quality and in line with the correct standards?
Our knowledgeable design engineers understand electricity networks and make sure quality is at the forefront of all designs. We are experienced with Distribution Network Operator standards and, being closely affiliated with one of the UK’s largest DNOs, we take pride in operating to the highest quality and industry leading standards. Our experienced training resources, make sure we keep up to date with industry developments.
Further Reading
UKPN | Joints, Terminations & Separable Connectors 11kV 33kV
Pot Ending LV SWA PVC Sheathed Service Cables – Engineering Guide UKPN
11kV Triplex Cable Joint (UKPN)
LV MV HV Jointing, Earthing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt
Key Product Categories: Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Cable Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling | Earthing | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV
PFISTERER Sicon | Did You Know That PFISTERER Invented Hexagonal Pressing In The 1950s?
June 30th, 2021
This article has been republished with the kind permission of Peter Samer – Key Account Manager at Pfisterer Ges.mbH Austria
PFISTERER Sicon Connectors
Did you know that PFISTERER invented hexagonal pressing in the 1950s?
The Pfisterer Sicon range offers reliable and durable connections for all conductors.
The security of supply of energy networks is based on reliable and lasting contacts.
They are the key to secure power transmission. At the same time, assembly should be as simple as possible and risks of error should be largely excluded. For contacting cable ends, there are two methods recognized in practice with pressing and screwdriving technology, which have proven themselves. Pfisterer as a contact technology specialist offers a complete program for both processes.
Press Connection – Proven & Known
With the invention of the six-edge pressing technology in the 1950s, Pfisterer set a standard that is still used today. There is a reason for this. The six-edge press connection is simple, fast and reliable. Prerequisites for assembly success are the exact assignment of sleeve, conductor and the right tool. In track construction and industrial series production, pressing technology impresses with its cost efficiency.
Pfisterer Sicon Connectors
Screw Connection – Universal & Simple
With the development of the SICON bolted connector, Pfisterer set new standards for easy handling and safety. Each connector covers a wide clamping range and is suitable for all types of socket. The patented ‘stepless’ shear bolt guarantees ideal contact for each specific conductor and helps the engineer to feel confident in the success of his installation.
SICON is always the right choice particularly suited to single connections, small series, and maintenance work.
Pfisterer also provides innovative solutions for connections and branches. Thanks to the 2DIREKT transformer terminal, you have a simple, universal, and space-saving way to connect distribution transformers. The patented tap-off ISICOMPACT terminal establishes all contacts for a 4-conductor cable branch using a single screw connection. And the PLUG system is a plug-in high-voltage connection for modern trains, wind power plants, industrial applications, and more.
A SICON Replaces 98 Press Connectors
Compared to the pressing technology, SICON connectors bring a significantly reduced variety of variants. The 1:1 assignment of conductor and sleeve is no longer necessary and with our eight standard variants, fitters on the construction site are equipped for all eventualities. This reduces warehousing and transport costs enormously. SICON connectors are mounted with a standard rattle with hexagonal bit – pressing tools are superfluous.
Pfisterer
The Pfisterer corporate group has been dealing with the interfaces in the flow of electricity ever since it was founded back in 1921.
As a specialist in energy transmission and distribution, Pfisterer offer our customers and business partners a range of sophisticated, future-ready products: For all voltage ranges and wherever reliable, long-lasting systems are needed for powerful energy grids.
As well as the energy sector, they are also active in transport technology and industrial solutions.
SICON SHEARBOLT CONNECTORS
The Right Connection for All LV MV HV Conductors – For years, bolted clamps, connectors, and cable lugs have been gaining ground – with good reason. Bolted connectors offer technical and practical advantages that compression technology cannot match.
Bolt type connectors offer not only technical, but also practical advantages over compression technology. All SICON Shearbolt Cable Connectors cover a wide conductor cross-section range so that you always have the right connectors on site for any application.
Main benefits of Sicon Connectors include:
- Reliable connection for all conductors
- Optimal contact force for all conductors
- No damage to individual strands
- Installation with standard tools
- Ideal for all type of joints or terminations
- Wide application range
LV MV HV Jointing, Earthing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt
Key Product Categories: Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Cable Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling | Earthing | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV
Arc Flash | Don’t Let the Summer Sun Compromise Your Electrical PPE
June 30th, 2021Comments By & Republished with Kind Permission of Mark Lant, Technical Expert at ProGARM
Electrical PPE
Arc Flash Clothing
In industries working around high and low voltage electricity, the importance of Electrical PPE is widely recognised, and the latest electrical safety requirements are understood by managers and operatives alike. However, the dangers posed by an arc flash are not so well known in comparison. With temperatures of up to 35,000ºF, which is more than four times hotter than the surface of the sun, an arc flash has the potential to burn an operative’s skin within fractions of a second, meaning PPE really is the last line of defence for workers.
But the summer heat can pose a risk to workers, who may be unknowingly compromising the protection provided by their PPE in their efforts to keep cool.
The Risks of Heavy, Bulky Electrical PPE
For obvious reasons, all arc flash clothing must be full length and long sleeve, to ensure no part of an operative is left unprotected. However, this can become extremely warm for those working during the warmer summer months.
Additionally, arc flash protective clothing has historically been thought of as uncomfortable. This is primarily because the clothing was typically made from fabrics that provided great protection, but were often heavy, stiff, and rough against bare skin.
A garment can offer the ultimate protection, but if an operative does not feel comfortable wearing it, that protection diminishes when they choose not to wear the garment correctly.
Heavy, bulky and rigid Electrical PPE is frequently worn incorrectly – it’s all too easy to roll sleeves up or undo a jacket when a garment is uncomfortably hot in the warmer months, but all this seriously compromises the safety of an individual against an arc flash.
Ensuring Breathable Electrical PPE
Thankfully, uncomfortable PPE can now be a thing of the past, thanks to the use of inherent fabrics. Inherent fabric refers to material which has fire retardant properties as part of its natural make-up. In other words, they needn’t undergo a chemical process to become flame-retardant, as the polymers which make up the clothing are inherently so.
Not only do inherent fabrics offer lifelong protection, garments made with inherent fibres allow movement, breathability and moisture management. The fabric readily absorbs sweat and then dries quickly, not only providing cooling in hot, humid conditions, but doesn’t leave sweat running down the skin.
The Importance of Layering Arc Flash Clothing
While in summer, the thought of extra layers may not be appealing, the material worn beneath an arc flash protective jacket is just as crucial to protecting from the event as outer clothing.
Although the outer garments are key components for providing protection, they are not enough to match the risk posed to an operative’s safety. Therefore it’s vital that any layers worn beneath arc flash clothing, including underwear, should also be arc-resistant.
This is because, while the flames caused by an arc flash may not actually come into contact with skin through the protective outer layers, the extreme heat from the event can melt the materials used to manufacture everyday undergarments, including nylon, cotton, and polypropylene. This will inflict burns on an operative and potentially cause non-arc flash protective undergarments to melt into the skin underneath their PPE.
The key to ensuring effective arc flash protection during hot working conditions is to ensure that workers are equipped with garments that will allow them to stay cool and comfortable during their physical tasks, therefore enabling them to wear their Electrical PPE in the correct manner without overheating.
💡 Did you know? – While high voltage equipment does increase the likelihood and intensity of arc flash explosions, they can occur in any live electrical environment – even low voltage.
Arc Flash Learning & Resources
Thorne and Derrick are proud to be distributors of ProGARM arc flash coveralls and protection.
We can help – should you require arc flash calculators or advice on the type of clothing and protection available please do not hesitate to contact us.
The Hidden Risks of Breaking Ground | Protecting Against Arc Flash
June 30th, 2021
Arc Flash Risks
The Hidden Risks of Breaking Ground
Those who work in electrically-charged environments are often aware of the dangers they face. Rightly so; it’s highly regulated because a wrong move could have devastating consequences. But what about when that’s not the case?
Industries from telecoms to utilities, sustainable technology to rail maintenance can find themselves in unpredictable territory when breaking ground. In this more uncontrolled environment, the risk of an arc flash or other electrical incident is a real possibility.
A CRITICAL LACK OF INFORMATION
Companies involved in breaking ground rely on underground utility maps to show whether there is a risk of disturbing live services. It’s worrying though, that there is no single, government-owned collection of maps showing the UK’s service network. Instead, some companies hold some records, creating at best a very high-level picture.
At worst, it’s dangerous; as well as the unknown risks, utility and service cable strikes cost the economy around £1.2bn a year.
The HSE has produced a comprehensive guide Avoiding Danger from Underground Services.
This talks about how to identify and manage the dangers, as well as identifying services and safe excavation. The guidance is clear about the responsibilities if you plan work that may disturb underground services, and suggests that site operators and owners should be prepared to help you locate and identify any services that could be a risk.
Stokbord Drum Cable Protection for Underground Utility Cables
THE MOST DANGEROUS RISK IS AN UNKNOWN ONE
One of the biggest problems with the unpredictable task of breaking ground is that if there’s no perceived risk then it’s likely the wrong PPE is being used. When there’s even a possibility of an arc flash occurring, it’s crucial that specialist arc flash kit is worn.
People regularly working in known live electrical environment have an advantage. They benefit from full and comprehensive assessments to ensure they’re wearing kit that will protect them should an incident occur. As an employer, the costs are significant if you don’t follow the rules with fines of over £2m not unheard of.
THE RIGHT ARC FLASH PPE CHOICE IS THE ONLY CHOICE
Research shows there is a lack of awareness about the products available to protect people from arc flashes and other electrical incidents. Conversations about thermal energy and calories per square centimetre of fabric may seem complex and overwhelming.
As a result, they can be a trigger for your businesses reverting to tried and tested PPE that suits a more generalist need.
In the event of an arc flash, that decision could be the difference between survival, significant life-changing injuries and even death. Purpose-designed arc-flash clothing, as designed by ProGARM, undergoes every possible industry test, meets every relevant certification, and matches every necessary standard. More than that, it is designed with comfort, durability and wearability in mind.
If disaster strikes when breaking ground, ignorance will be no excuse.
Further Reading
Arc Workwear Saves Lives | Watch Mitchell’s Story
Live Line Electricity Voltage Alarm | CATU ALED3
Arc Flash Risks In The Rail Industry
Arc Flash Learning & Resources
Thorne and Derrick are proud to be distributors of ProGARM arc flash coveralls and protection.
We can help – should you require arc flash calculators or advice on the type of clothing and protection available please do not hesitate to contact us.
Onshore Wind Farms: Nexans Awarded Underground Power Cable Contract for Viking Wind Farm
June 30th, 2021
Nexans cables for Onshore Wind Farms
- One of the UK’s largest onshore wind farms will rely on Nexans’s cables to provide vital connections at distribution voltage level to help Scotland meet its net-zero targets.
- 800km of underground cable will create the inter-array connection for 103 wind turbines and export the power generated.
Paris, June 15, 2021 – Nexans has been awarded a multi-million euro contract by SSE Renewables to supply 800km of underground cables that will make the vital power connections for the Viking Wind Farm. The wind farm on Shetland in the North Atlantic, 170km from the coast of Scotland, is scheduled to go online in 2024. With a peak output of 443MW, it will provide enough renewable energy for almost half a million homes and play a crucial role in helping Scotland achieve its net-zero targets.
The Viking Wind Farm will comprise 103 wind turbines set around the central mainland of Shetland. The 33 kilovolt (kV) underground cables supplied by Nexans will link the wind turbine arrays together and then export the power to the main substation for feeding into the interconnector that will transfer it to the UK grid.
Derek Hastings, Head of Onshore Projects at SSE Renewables said: “The performance and reliability of the underground power cables are critical to the success of the Viking Wind Farm. There were two main reasons for awarding the contract to Nexans. First, the cables met our stringent technical requirements. Second, and very important for us, was Nexans’ ability to provide a fixed price over the 18-month contract period. This overcame the current volatility in metal and plastics pricing.”
The 650km of underground cables to be supplied by Nexans are a single core design with cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation. The conductors for the inter-array cables will be aluminium. Copper will be used to carry the higher current for the export cables. Nexans is also supplying 150km of bare copper earth cable.
Max Williams, Utility Sales Director for Nexans UK, said: “We are delighted to be involved in the Viking Wind Farm project. It is a perfect fit with Nexans’ ambition to electrify the future. The contract builds on our long-established working relationship with SSE. It also confirms Nexans’s capability to support major UK clients with large-volume, land-based power cable projects at distribution voltages.”
The cables for the Viking Wind Farm will be manufactured at the Nexans Hellas plant in Lamia, Greece and will be supplied via Nexans UK. First deliveries are scheduled for September 2021.
Onshore Wind Farms
Further reading
Nexans Windlink® Cables To Electrify The Future Of Onshore Wind Turbines
Nexans OJC Offshore Medium Voltage Junction Cabinets For Wind Power Projects
Nexans Power Cable Accessories For Wind Energy Projects – MV & HV Cables
Key Product Categories: Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Cable Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling | Earthing | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV
