Driving Sustainability and Innovation: NEPIC’s Cluster Connect Event 2025
Published 02 Jul 2025
The NEPIC June 2025 Cluster Connect event, hosted at 3M’s Newton Aycliffe facility, was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders to discuss sustainability, electrical innovation and collaborative growth. Among the highlights were the insightful presentations by Terry McDonald, representing Thorne & Derrick International, and Jenny Swindells from 3M Electrical, who shared their expertise on how the electrical sector is evolving to meet future challenges.
Terry McDonald: A Legacy of Electrical Innovation
Terry McDonald’s presentation delved into the long-standing partnership between Thorne & Derrick and 3M, showcasing how their collaboration has driven advancements in electrical infrastructure, cable jointing, and LV MV HV substation equipment. With decades of experience in the industry, Terry provided a fascinating look into how Thorne & Derrick has been at the forefront of HV and LV electrical solutions, supporting critical projects across the UK and beyond.
Key takeaways from Terry’s talk included:
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The importance of sustainable electrical solutions in modern infrastructure.
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How innovation in cable jointing and termination technologies is shaping safer, more efficient power distribution using Cold Shrink technology pioneered by 3M Electrical.
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The historical journey of Thorne & Derrick and its alignment with 3M’s vision for a greener future.
Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for how industry partnerships can accelerate progress, ensuring that the electrical sector remains resilient and forward-thinking.
Jenny Swindells: 3M’s Commitment to Sustainability
Jenny Swindells, representing 3M, delivered an engaging presentation on sustainability in the electrical sector, emphasising how material science and innovation are paving the way for eco-friendly advancements.
Her discussion highlighted
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3M’s cutting-edge developments in electrical insulation, Scotchcast Resin, safety products, and renewable energy solutions.
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The role of circular economy principles in reducing waste and improving efficiency.
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How collaboration between companies like 3M and Thorne & Derrick fosters industry-wide progress.
The site tour of 3M’s Newton Aycliffe facility further reinforced these insights, giving attendees a first-hand look at the ground-breaking work being done behind the scenes.
A Morning of Networking and Inspiration
The event was a fantastic opportunity for professionals across the Northeast Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) to connect, share ideas, and explore future collaborations. The combination of expert insights, facility tours, and networking made it a truly enriching experience.
A huge thank you to 3M hosting such an inspiring event. The discussions on sustainability, innovation, and partnership have set the stage for even greater advancements in the electrical sector.
About Thorne and Derrick International
Thorne & Derrick International are UK based and are the leading specialist distributors of LV, MV and HV cable accessories, joints, terminations and tooling from 600V to 132kV complemented by an extensive range of hazardous area certified electrical equipment (ATEX and IECEx) to provide compliant, safe and optimised power, heating and lighting.
Thorne and Derrick International supports critical infrastructure projects across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, marine, and process industries.
With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial process markets.
