utility business spring 2013

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UTILITYBUSINESS

THE DIVISIONAL MAGAZINE FROM EUA UTILITY NETWORKSSPRING 2013

In this issue:• The Olympic Legacy

• Utility Street Works Update• Challenging the Perceptions of Apprenticeships

• New Columnist Nick Eyre, University of Oxford

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Utility Business Spring 2013

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Answers for Infrastructure & Cities.

siemens.co.uk/metering

Siemens Metering, Communications and Services is uniquely placed to support the UK market on the journey from traditional services to smart metering.

Our customers do not have to worry about the route or the itinerary – we will take care of everything.

Using knowledge gained in the UK and from our international smart meter deployment experience, Siemens has developed the Sie-Smart range of solutions. Through a single interface, this provides scalable services that will keep pace as smart implementation evolves: from the foundation phase through to the enduring market.

Helping you through the smart journey, our range includes:• Smart Asset Finance and Management• Smart Installation and Maintenance• Smart Grid Applications and Services• Smart Data and Communications Services• Energy Supplier Data and Management Services• Smart for Business Services• Communication Solution for Complex Multi-Occupier

Buildings

Our services combine proven scalability and interoperability that will take your business into the next chapter of smart metering management in a simple, cost effective and risk free way.

A first class journey to a smart destination

Smart_advert_oct2012.indd 1 22/10/2012 12:06

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UTILITYBUSINESS

THE QUARTERLY PUBLICATION FROM THEUTILITY NETWORKS DIVISION

Energy & Utilities AllianceUtility Networks DivisionDirector:David [email protected] 01926 513760

Administrator:Ana [email protected] 01926 513761

Marketing & Communications:Caroline [email protected] 01926 513762

Manager - Events, GSOG:Vanessa [email protected] 01926 513763

Manager:Gary [email protected] 01926 513764

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ChairmenUtility Networks Board:Steve Murray (National Grid Distribution)

Dist/Trans Equipment Group:Richard Stone (AVK UK Ltd)

Network Engineering Group:Ian Foster (Fulcrum)

Metering Services Group:Vic Tuffen (Tuffentech)

Metering Technology Group:Jeff Cooper (Elster Metering)

Gas Storage Operators Group:Roddy Monroe (Centrica Storage)

Data & CommunicationsManagement Group:Mike Buss (Sensus Conservation Solutions)

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Editor/EnquiriesCaroline [email protected] 513762ISSN Number

Energy and Utilities AllianceCamden House, Warwick Road, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 1THTel: 01926 513765 Fax: 01926 857474www.eua.org.uk

Visit the blog at www.utility-business.org

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Welcomefrom your editor

FeaturesUtility Street Works Update 8

Building our Energy Infrastructure 11

The Olympic Legacy 18

Challenging the Perception of 23 Apprenticeships

RegularsUtility Networks News 4

Regulatory Update 7

New Members 20

Member Directory 20

Viewpoint 24

Member News 26

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Caroline Taylor, [email protected]

Welcome to Utility Business. This edition looks at the critical issue of building our energy and wider infrastructure, with some really interesting case studies of large scale UK projects currently being completed. Our Infrastructure is vital in providing the energy, transport, water, communications and other essentials that are the basis of society. How many of us realise its true value, we often just take it for granted. The scale of the projects featured is inspiring.

Of interest to many members’ business operations will be the street works update, following a really successful seminar in March. Street Works of course affect us all and can be extremely disruptive but are closely governed by safety codes and rules that encourage speedy and efficient work, and penalise the operator if they over run. Along with updates on lane rental and permit schemes, there were some great examples of innovation and best practice at the event. It was useful to hear the policy areas that are given priority on Government’s street works agenda in the Department for Transport keynote address.

The last twelve months has seen much progress towards Smart Metering rollout goals, though some areas have not have proceeded quite as quickly as envisaged. With the number of workgroups slimmed down as various elements of the programme conclude or await outcome from Europe, EUA is still actively participating in most of the on-going work streams – see the update in the UN News pages for more on this.

We have a new columnist for 2013. Energy specialist Dr Nick Eyre from Oxford University will provide comment and insight in a regular column and we look forward to his contribution throughout the year.

I really hope you enjoy this issue. If you have any news to share regarding developments in your own company for the next issue, please do drop me a line.


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Utility Networks News

Sign up to the ‘News from Westminster’ servicefrom EUAA new service available for EUA members only, provides a weekly update (each Monday) on Political activity, EUA Press Releases and a round-up of House of Commons Questions. If you have not signed up already but wish to do so, please email Ana Ray with your request – [email protected]

EUA Annual ReportThe 2012 EUA Annual report is now published covering our events, divisional activity and message from the EUA President, Carl Arntzen,and introduction by Chief Executive Mike Foster.

If your organisation would like to request any additional copies please [email protected]

Smart metering updateFirst the Thank-you’s!As always we are grateful to our members and their companies who have so freely given time and commitment to support EUA in the Smart Metering Implementation Programme workgroups, consultations and document reviews. EUA is viewed as a significant stakeholder in the programme but we are only as effective as our membership base is engaged, and we continue to achieve an excellent level of support, so thanks to you all. Many, many members have contributed but special thanks must go to:

• Elster Metering: Jeff Cooper, Matt Hallchurch and Michael John• Landis & Gyr: Ian White, Elias Hanna and Wim Ton• Power Plus Communications: David Pitcher• Siemens: Jack Worsnop• Secure Meters: Jim Nield• Itron: Geoff Kingston• Tuffentech: Vic Tuffen

Programme OverviewThe last twelve months has seen much progress towards Smart Metering rollout goals, though some areas have not have proceeded quite as quickly as hoped. There is still significant work to be completed to finalise the various specifications for meters, communications hubs, and significantly, the security and assurance specifications.

This is causing some uncertainty in the industry and the Foundation Phase trials have not progressed to the degree that was perhaps originally envisaged. Several of the energy suppliers are wary of installing significant numbers of foundation meters (SMETS 1 or pre SMETS – Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specification) due to fears over costly stranding of these assets.

The procurement process for the DCC (Data & Communication Company), CSP (Comms Services Provider) and DSP ( Data Services Provider) is due for completion in the summer and the SEC AS (Smart Energy Code Administration Service) bidding process is about to proceed with a view that this service be in place for the appointment of DCC.

There is also progress on the formation of the CDM (Central Delivery Body), which is tasked with ensuring proper and accurate communication to consumers on all aspects of the

rollout programme. This should ensure that, not only are consumers fully aware of what is happening in the programme but also why it is happening, and any misleading and inaccurate information is counteracted promptly with the accurate and truthful facts regarding Smart Meters.

The programme team at DECC is undergoing a few changes and is generally beginning to reduce in number. Some of the team is moving to similar roles in Ofgem as the emphasis moves from implementation to rollout.

The general aim is to begin the wind down of the programme team ahead of the mandated rollout in 2014. However, many involved in the work streams feel that this may be a little premature and could lead to a loss of project knowledge and accountability. EUA would like to see continued presence by DECC until significantly into rollout.

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ODAG Overall Design Advisory GroupThe group advises the programme on cross-cutting issues that straddle the other expert and advisory groups and has been considering: protection of consumers, DCC charging arrangements, Security Governance arrangements, Definition of core services, Appropriate length of the CSP contract, WAN coverage during rollout.

SummaryThe programme is moving steadily forward and attaining the desired goals, but general stakeholder feeling is that in many ways is not moving quickly enough on some of the critical path items - security and certification being prime examples of the outstanding and long awaited issues.

EUA and its members are committed to supporting the programme in every way we can and will endeavour to move the critical items to full conclusion as soon as practical. We have requested that DECC update the programme timeline to more closely reflect the true current position but we do understand that there are difficulties in updating this on a regular basis.

End to End Key design issues

SMETS 2 development is continuing with remaining aspects such as; HAN strategy, Comms Hub tech spec, prepay interface

device and consumer access device pairing details being submitted to EU in Q3 2013.

Security

The security governance and assurance, CPA for equipment certification and

PKI and protocol security are all being reviewed and discussed in this quarter.

Technical Architecture

The GB companion spec is also being reviewed and will hopefully be completed

by July this year.

Foundation – Testing and Trialling and Transition

Strategy

The long awaited Enrolment and Adoption policy consultation is due to be responded

to by Government by April 2013.

SDAG – Solutions Design Advisory Group

This is a high level replacement for SSAG (some feel that SSAG should have continued to ensure detailed debate was not lost). A consumer keypad was added to the SMETS 2 spec at the eleventh hour without consideration of the cost and/or delays to the rollout but this would now appear to not be a mandated aspect of

the meters.

HAG - HAN Advisory Group

Work is proceeding well on the various HAN trials and the results will be available

shortly for the wired HAN trials. The current path is for the industry to rollout with 2.4 GHz solution as this is available but that work should proceed to ensure

that an 868 MHz solution is available at the earliest opportunity.

STEG – Security Technical Expert Group

The latest risk assessment will be reviewed soon and the CPA requirements are also being reviewed in the full STEG

sessions.

FSG – FoundationStrategy Group

The transitions strategy is currently being finalised and the processes to move to the governance by the Smart Energy

panel and therefore the format of the SEC Admin Services is also close.

The SMRG WG4 -Smart Metering Regulation

Consequential Changes Group

This group will be meeting shortly and it is proposed that it will discuss the latest views on changes due to the SEC content

and governance.

CERG and CERG - OI – Consumer Engagement and

Rollout Group and Operational Issues Group

The way forward and the formation of the Central Delivery Body has been processed and there is also a short consultation by

Ofgem on the Smart Metering Installation Code of Practice ahead of approval.

Current Work StreamsThe number of workgroups has slimmed down as various elements of the programme conclude or await outcome from Europe. EUA is still actively participating in most of the on-going work streams:


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Utility Networks News continued

Network Engineering and Distribution and Transmission Equipment member groups combined The Division has combined its Network Engineering and Distribution and Transmission Equipment Member Groups into one group.

We have had significant success when these groups have been brought together previously for joint meetings, most recently for focused discussions and lobbying of the Gas Distribution Networks and Achilles.

These groups have common interests in a wide range of areas including energy policy, regulation, infrastructure and asset management, and will become a stronger body in tackling these issues.

The new group will be known as the Network Engineering and Equipment Group and a new chairman will be elected in due course. The current chairmen of the two former groups will be making way for this new Chairman, having served on these groups for a number of years. We would like to say a huge thank-you to Ian Foster and Richard Stone for the commitment and leadership they have provided.

Free attendanceat EUA events Free attendance for EUA members is available via USIT (Utilities & Service Industries Training Ltd) Bursaries. EUA is pleased to offer a limited number of free places under this scheme to qualifying delegates.

Places will be allocated on a first come first served basisand subject to approval by EUA. For further information and an application form please email Caroline [email protected]. The closing date for applications is Friday 28 June 2013 and the following events in 2013 will be eligible under this scheme:

• Data & Communications for Smart Metering – 12 June• Utility Infrastructure Solutions – 9 July• Utility Metering – 26 September• Utility Asset Management – 30 October• Gas 2013 – 14 November

An Audience with…

Basil ScarsellaIn January, EUA resumed its popular ‘Audience with’ events, which aim to give delegates unprecedented access to industry leaders. The interactive morning session attracted capacity audience of senior business executives and was kindly hosted by Hogan Lovells at their London offices.

Basil Scarsella is Chief Executive Officer of UK Power Networks (UKPN), owned by the Cheung Kong Group. UKPN began operations in October 2010, following the sale of EDF Energy Networks to Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings and is the largest Distribution Network Operator in the UK, distributing electricity to over 8 million homes and businesses. It has over 5,000 employees in its regulated and non-regulated areas and generated over £1.3bn of revenue in 2010, with revenue of over £200m per year for the non-regulated business, which has long-term contracts with high profile customers such as the London airports and the London Underground, as well as providing the electrical infrastructure and power for last year’s Olympic Games.

Basil Scarsella set out to make the electricity network among one of the country’s top performers and has restructured the business to operate with a clearly defined strategic framework and focused vision, with a management team and business plans aligned to this vision and framework. The company is striving to be an employer of choice, a respected corporate citizen and a sustainable, cost efficient operation – and this is driving its business values and objectives.

Basil credited the high quality employees who have responded well to the new management approach. New targets for improving efficiency, safety and reliability have performed well, reflected in the staff bonus scheme.

With the start of a new regulatory regime in April 2013 and changes to technological approaches required by the introduction of smarter networks – they are working on smart grid projects such as Low Carbon London - it is an extremely interesting and important time for distribution networks companies.

We extend our thanks to host Hogan Lovells and to the event sponsor Clancy Docwra.

BiographyBasil Scarsella is the Chief Executive Officer of UK Power Networks, owned by the Cheung Kong Group. Prior to taking up the appointment at UK Power Networks, Basil was the CEO of Northern Gas Networks from 2005, also owned by the Cheung Kong Group.

From 1998, Basil was the CEO of ETSA Utilities, a privatised electricity distribution business in Australia. Between 1994 and 1998 he was General Manager of ETSA Power Corporation, responsible for electricity distribution, retailing, field services and customer services. Before joining ETSA Corporation in 1994 he was Group Planning and Finance Manager at the South Australia Gas Company (SAGASCO).

Basil holds a degree in Economics from the University of Adelaide and is a Certified Practicing Accountant. He is a Life Member of Football Australia and former Member of the Executive Committee of FIFA. He received the Australian Sports Medal in 2000 and in 2003 became a Member of the Order of Australia, for services to sport.

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Visit our blog: www.utility-business.org

Regulatory UpdateRIIO (Revenue = incentives + innovation + output)As Utility Business goes to press the new price control period for Electricity transmission (T1) and gas distribution (GD1) will have started The price control period of eight years will see planned investment spending split between £15.5bn on electricity, and £8.7bn on gas, adding an average £12 to annual consumer energy bills.

RIIO ED1 will be implemented for electricity distribution networks (DNOs) in two years’ time (2015 – 2023) and the companies are well into the process of preparing their business plans. An important element of the timeframe RIIO-ED1 covers is the anticipated increase in low carbon technologies.

GD1 - National GridBalfour Beatty and a joint alliance of Skanska and Morrison Utility Services have won two eight year National Grid contracts worth a combined £2.8bn.

The Skanska-Morrison Utility Services work will focus on the East of England and North London and Balfour Beatty will be upgrading the gas grid in the North West and West Midlands, replacing the firm’s current gas contract in the North West.

The UK’s recent performance in improving energy efficiency is quite good. Since 2004, household energy has fallen consistently, on average by more than 2% a year. This has been achieved largely by programmes of low cost insulation and by replacing older boilers with condensing boilers. But that cannot go on forever; at some point we will need more expensive, more difficult measures if we are to get the improvements we need of 60-80% in the carbon performance of the building stock.

The Government’s strategy is the Green Deal, and the basic approach is encouraging. It treats energy efficiency as an investment, seeking to bring in new sources of finance, which is critical as we clearly will not get all the required investment in the building stock from energy companies and HM Treasury. And there are requirements for accreditation that are essential if consumers are going to trust the process.

But there is a fundamental problem around the “Golden Rule” of the Green Deal – the requirement that repayments on the Green Deal loan should be no higher than the expected value of the energy savings. On the whole, people do not refurbish homes to improve energy efficiency, but rather to get a nice kitchen, a better bathroom or a loft conversion.

The deep refurbishment measures needed to deliver our 2050 carbon targets will have to be installed as part of these projects; and the incremental costs of low carbon in such projects are likely to be cost effective. But there is little chance of a new kitchen satisfying the Golden Rule, and so the whole project will not be eligible for Green Deal finance. For the average household, it will be cheaper and easier to find alternative sources of finance, with the risk that the low carbon aspects of the project do not happen.

The way forward is to recognise that low carbon refurbishment is different. A ‘normal refurbishment’ has value to the household only, but a low carbon refurbishment contributes much wider public benefits in terms of energy security and climate mitigation. The Energy Bill currently going through Parliament proposes, rightly in my view, to make all electricity consumers pay for the additional cost of low carbon electricity supply to help deliver those goals.

Saving energy is always a low carbon option and usually cheaper, but so far there is no similar provision in the Bill for energy demand reduction. However, the Government has promised to bring forward amendments to the Bill to do this and it is important that they do. It may seem odd to suggest that we ought to be prepared to pay our neighbours to save energy. But it will usually be a cheaper option than paying our energy suppliers to do more low carbon generation, so it makes complete sense.

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Dr Nick Eyre is Programme Leader of the Lower Carbon Futures group in the Environmental Change Institute at the University of Oxford, and a Jackson Senior Research Fellow at Oriel College, Oxford. He is a Co-Director of the UK Energy Research Centre, leading its work on energy demand.

Nick previously worked at the Energy Saving Trust as Director of Strategy and, on secondment, in Cabinet Office, where he was a co-author of the Government’s 2002 Review of Energy Policy. Nick has worked on energy, environment and climate issues for 25 years. He has published extensively and is a lead author on the Fifth Assessment Report of the IPCC.

The Nick Ayre Column

THE ENERGY BILL ANDREDUCING ENERGY USE

Energy Bill The Energy Bill continues its way through parliament after first being presented in November 2012. It had its second reading debate on 19 December 2012 then completed its committee stage on 7 February 2013. Next up is the report stage and third reading, however the date had not been announced at the time of going to press. Royal Assent is not expected until the end of 2013.

Changes at OfgemOfgem Chief Executive, Alistair Buchanan, will leave in June 2013, when his second five year term comes to an end.

It is understood the position will be recruited for over the next few months. Lord Mogg, Ofgem’s Chairman for 9 years will also step down at the end of his second 5 year term in September 2013.

> Alistair Buchanan to leave Ofgem


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Utility Street Works 2013March 19 saw EUA’s one-day Street Works seminar take place at the IET in London. The event attracted capacity audience of over 120 delegates for this annual update on policy, regulation, safety, technology and best practice.

Policy & Regulation

Government Traffic Policy Update

There are approximately 1.2 million street works carried out every year, said Anthony Boucher, Deputy Director of Traffic Policy, at the Department for Transport, costing the economy £4.2bn. Our roads deliver essential services which support economic growth, making efficient Street Works management a Government priority. Policy decisions support several aims – to minimise disruption, to achieve first time reinstatement to an acceptable standard, to promote co-ordination and co-operation within street works and to develop and share best practice.

With the default for carrying out work on the roads the noticing framework, new systems have developed to support these aims including permit schemes and the Lane Rental scheme in London (soon to be followed by Kent). Government’s Red Tape Challenge initiative to remove unnecessary regulatory burdens is promoting the move to greater self-regulation within the sector, said Antony, but in conjunction with HAUC and other industry bodies.

Lane Rental – an evaluation

London’s Lane Rental scheme commenced in June 2012, explained Mark Beasley, from Transport for London (TfL). The city is the first in the UK to adopt the scheme and reducing disruption and more efficient working is at its heart. The scheme covers around 330km (57 per cent) of TfL’s red routes and applies to any utility or TfL works carried out on the network. Any additional revenue raised from the scheme, once operating costs have been recovered, is ring-fenced, explained Mark, and put towards street works related investment. Any lane rental scheme, he said, must be underpinned by a robust permit scheme.

Early evaluation of the scheme has been somewhat skewed by the Olympics embargo on planned works, but indications are that lane rental is resulting in desired behaviour change, both from utilities and highway authorities, for example, headline figures from TfL’s Interim report show a 32% reduction in severe disruption.

NJUG Update

CEO of NJUG, Les Guest needs little introduction, as one of the foremost authorities on Street Works in the industry. There exists a perception problem in the utilities sector, Les said. It is too often assumed that all road problems are caused by utilities digging holes and NJUG is focused on changing this perception. The real message is that utilities are investing millions in improving street works through technology, innovation and better working practices. They are actively reducing their impact on the road system and there are some real good new stories out there.

Les recognises that there is still much more to do to achieve better planning and co-ordination but it is also about taking into account the impact on the customer. Utilities need to involve local communities and be considerate towards local businesses. Success needs re-defining, it is not just about delivering to a set of targets. Much more customer focus is required in street works to help improve the wider perception.

This was one of Les Guest’s final appearances as NJUG CEO before he moves back to work for National Grid.

From Policy to Practice

Working with Lane Rental

Christopher Perkins, Street Works Strategy Manager for UK Power Networks (UKPN) has some interesting challenges. UKPN is one of the UK’s largest electricity distribution companies, with 8 million connected customers spread across London, the South East, and the East of England. They have over 160,000km of underground and overhead cables interconnected by more than 135,600 substations. Much of their network is below ground and in London, where the TfL lane rental scheme applies, 100% of the network is underground.

They operate in 52 local authority areas with each of these authorities having their own challenges and priorities in the way they apply street works legislation and between them run 26 permit schemes and 2 lane rental schemes (London and

Headline updates Red Tape challenge - self-regulation in street works increasingly being promoted by Government, provided it has sector guidance and involvement of HAUC and other relevant bodies.

Deregulation of street works qualifications, proposed by Government, will not proceed. Utilities and local authorities opposed the proposals (believing it would increase costs and hinder good working across the sector) and Government listened.

57 Authorities now run, or have approval to run, permit schemes.

Early indications are that Lane Rental in London is influencing positive behaviour change.

New overrun regulations came into force on 1 October 2012 with higher fines - up to £5,000 a day (was £2,500) for the first 3 extra days increasing after. Councils must spend overrun charge income on implementing transport policies.

New revisions to the Street Works Safety Code - to put more emphasis on risk assessment and designing site-specific approaches to encourage better working practices and greater consistency.

ETON 6 - planned to commence October 2013 - will make communication between utilities and Highway Authorities more efficient leading to savings in time and costs.

> Mark Beasley, Anthony Boucher and Les Guest

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Kent), with the remainder running noticing schemes. The introduction of Lane Rental last summer meant they had to understand a whole set of new rules, requiring amendments to their systems, processes and working practices, as well as a strong, ongoing focus on educating employees.

Innovation in Street Works

Innovation in Street Works is just one area that National Grid is driving forward performance. Paul Gerrard, Strategic TMA/NRSWA Streetworks Manager, shared some of the innovative techniques and processes the company is applying to reduce traffic disruption. Road plating systems can help keep traffic moving and core & vac is regularly employed to reduce the size of excavations in the carriageway - engineers can drill smaller holes and make repairs underground, reducing the time it takes and the size of excavation. The original road surface can be replaced immediately and using less material brings environmental benefits.

Customer Impact of Street Works

Driven by the performance objectives, Severn Trent Water Ltd strives to give their customers a positive experience in every situation. They are acutely aware that to the travelling public their street works standards and impact reflect the company – does the work cause severe disruption, is the signage

informative and explanatory, are the works left tidy. They measure customer experience through Ofwat’s Service Incentive Mechanism (SIM), explained Anita Solanki, TMA Standards & Strategy Manager.SIM is a scoring process monitoring customer contact and quality of service. Severn Trent employ a system which engages consumers immediately after any interaction, for example, following a call to the contact centre, after visiting the website or using a mobile application, asking for immediate feedback on that interaction.

Regional Permit Schemes

Jon Prince, Hertfordshire County Council & Mehmet Mazhar, Southend on Sea Borough Council, shared their experiences of operating in a regional permit scheme. This scheme received approval in June 2012 and came into operation in November 2012 and involves Bedford Borough Council, Hertfordshire County Council, Luton Borough Council and Southend on Sea Borough Council.

Each authority is required to operate in a functionally identical manner giving greater parity and collaboration throughout the area for all works on the highway, not just utility works. Both Jon and Mehmet reported positive improvements from the scheme but warned of the length of time it took to receive approval from DfT.

For more see www.eastofenglandpermitscheme.co.uk

Our speakers

1. Morning chairman: Ken Hickson, Symology

2. Anthony Boucher, DfT

3. Mark Beasley, TfL

4. Les Guest, NJUG

5. Christopher Perkins, UK Power Networks

6. Paul Gerrard, National Grid

7. Anita Solanki, Severn Trent Water Ltd

8. Jon Prince, Hertfordshire County Council

9. Mehmet Mazhar, Southend on Sea Borough Council

10. Afternoon chairman: Shashi Seshadri, Enzen Global

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Highlights from the afternoon session:

Utility Street Works 2013

Technology, Innovation & Best Practice

1) James Lewis, CARDNO TBE

There is currently no formal standard for UK utility mapping, but industry is working towards one. The Institute of Civil Engineering will sponsor a new Publically Available Specification (PAS) 128: Specification for underground utility detection, verification and location, a broad outline of which has been agreed and will be out for consultation in Spring 2013. It should be ready for publication by autumn of 2013.

2) Marcus Edwards, LinesearchbeforeUdig

LinesearchbeforeUdig is an internet based search enquiry system available 24/7, which 3rd parties can use to make asset enquiries when planning works. It offers information on over 200,000 kms of assets including underground and overhead transmission and distribution electricity networks, transmission gas/oil pipelines and fibre optic cable networks.

3) Mike Bartlett, Symology

Cloud computing is a general term for anything that involves delivering hosted services over the Internet. Most of us currently use the cloud – in the form of gmail, hotmail, Twitter, You Tube, Facebook, Apple i cloud, Dropbox to name a few.

A cloud service is sold on demand, it is elastic - a user can have as much or as little of a service as they want at any given time; and the service is fully managed by the provider (the consumer needs nothing but a computer and Internet access). Symology has several cloud solutions and Managing Director Mike Bartlett shared their vision for cloud-based Street Works management.

4) Tim Sargent & 5) Andy Carter, Morrison Utility Services

Morrison Utility Services has made significant investment in new workforce solutions and is embracing the benefits that new technology can bring. They use TOA Technologies utility workforce management solutions, which optimises the entire process of mobile-workforce management.

This enables them to book appointments and schedule tasks responsively, assign mobile utility workers to jobs by skill set and predict the time to complete each task, dispatch resources efficiently, monitor and track all field personnel – continuously in real-time, which helps improve customer service, respond to unexpected events with prompt reaction and initiate immediate action for emergency task allocation.

6) John Kerr, Develop Training

Develop offer a wide range of training courses to help operatives work safely and effectively on the public highway, regularly updated to reflect the latest changes and assessment. They like to work closely with their clients to understand the business objectives, culture and encourage a partnership approach.

John would like to see the perceived training needs and requirements in the industry challenged to encourage innovation and improvements. Only if organisations adopt a continuous learning and improvement cycle approach will they maintain a fully trained and competent workforce, he said.

7) Peter McKeown & 8) Peter Scanlon, Skansa

The North London Gas Alliance (NLGA) is a gas mains replacement project that uses several innovative techniques to minimise environmental impacts and employs comprehensive stakeholder relation measures to reduce social disturbance. Some of the headline figures include:

• Waste - NLGA projects produced 144,000 tonnes of excavated material, of which 95% was recycled The Skanska target for 2013 is less than 6% waste to landfill

• Reinstatement - approximately 95 % of reinstatement materials consisted of recycled material (126K tonnes). Use of virgin material has reduced by 25% over 5 years.

Exhibition

The event was supported by an exhibition which facilitated enjoyable and valuable networking between speakers, delegates and exhibitors. Exhibiting were the event sponsors Symology, Enzen Global, Morrison Utility Services and Develop Training along with Vac-Ex, Synthotech Ltd, Cable Detection, First Intervention, Streetwork Solutions and Linesearchbeforeudig.

Special thanks must go to our Chairmen – Ken Hickson, Symology morning Chair and Shashi Seshadri, Enzen Global, who chaired the afternoon session.

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Our Infrastructure is vital in providing us with the energy, transport, water, communications and other essentials that are the basis of society.

It supports our daily life and adds to our quality of life. Because it works, we take it for granted and only when parts of it fail, or are taken away, do we realise its value.

Our built environment is increasingly complicated. Ambitious construction projects have to be completed by teams of people, with different skills, working together. We are constructing higher, better and longer, developing new techniques and using materials in entirely new ways, with a focus on conserving energy and reducing pollution.

Transport systems join our communities together and help us trade, travel, exchange ideas and information, and gain employment, healthcare and education. Integrated and sustainable transport solutions that limit congestion and accidents are vital.

Our communication networks drive efficiency and global reach. Our power stations, gas, water and electricity networks keep homes, offices and industry working, day and night.

Broadband is revolutionising our individual access to information technologies and traditional energy networks are becoming smarter. Water can be provided in more intelligent ways and waste management is open to a host of technological innovations.

Government estimates £400bn of infrastructure investment is needed before 2020. Failure to invest means failure to grow and develop our social and economic fabric - and we all have a stake in this.

BUILDINGOUR ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE


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In February 2011, National Grid embarked upon an ambitious eight-year, £1billion project, to rewire the capital via deep underground tunnels, to help ensure London continues to have the energy it needs and can access new renewable forms of energy generation. High voltage electricity cables (400,000volt) bi directional circuits will be wired in these tunnels which span London.

The project will replace the ageing electrical supply routes that are reaching the end of their life and will provide for the changing power needs of the city linking into the many and varied power sources. Demand will therefore be supplied in regional grids rather than along limited supply lines, so London can be fed with power from multiple directions.

Currently, most of the electricity supply in London is transmitted through underground cables, traditionally found just below the road surface. Work to maintain them is carried out at street level and housing new cables in deep underground tunnels brings a number of benefits:

• Less disruption during construction

• Less disruption for maintenance and repairs

• Future repairs and maintenance work can be carried out without disrupting traffic, residents and businesses

• Additional cables can be installed in tunnels to meet future demand

Route

The total length of the three tunnels is approximately 32km and will link existing substations at Hackney, St John’s Wood, Willesden and Wimbledon at an average depth of between 12m and 60m – the shallower they are the more potential for clashes with other tunnels. Work is initially focused in North and West London, connecting Hackney, St John’s Wood and Willesden substations, with a third tunnel following between Wimbledon and Kensal Green. It is anticipated that the electrical circuits within these tunnels will be fully operational by 2018.

DetailsHackney to St John’s WoodLength: 12.5kmPlanned Construction: Spring 2011 - 2015Diameter: 4m

St John’s Wood To WillesdenLength: 7.4kmPlanned Construction: Spring 2011 - 2015Diameter: 3m

Wimbledon to Kensal GreenLength: 12.4kmPlanned Construction: Winter 2011 – 2018Diameter: 3m

Design & Build

The project required major planning and surveying by the company and its main contractor, Costain, to navigate under - and occasionally over - London’s existing sub-surface infrastructure. The tunnels will be deep enough so that noise or vibration

UTILITY BUSINESS BUILDING OUR ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE

Powering the futureBy John Trounson, National Grid Senior Project Manager

London accounts for 20% of the UK’s electricity demand and this is continuing to grow by close to 5% a year, compared to the UK average of 2-3% a year. It is National Grid’s responsibility to ensure London has a safe and secure electricity transmission network.

> Shaft at Channel Gate Road

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> TBM Cleopatra at Eade Road

> Breakthrough at St John’s Wood Road

should not be heard or felt on the surface, meaning the crew will be able to work 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The tunnel and 14 shafts do not require planning approval as they are underground, but the surface structures up to 5 1/2 km apart do. A permanent system is needed to keep the cables cool with each shaft needing a head house with a fan arrangement in each alternate structure, along the route.

Before the tunnelling could start, launch shafts up to 15m wide were needed which combined with the other shafts, create a route map for the tunnel boring machines (TBM). The TBM can then be lowered down the shaft and start boring a tunnel along the pre-determined route. The depth and location of the machine is continually checked to ensure it follows the route accurately.

Getting the tunnelling machines down the shafts is a challenge, so the TBMs are put together underground (which can take up to seven weeks), starting in a 70m-long concrete launch tunnel built by mechanical excavators. TBM’s fulfil two main purposes; they move forward cutting the earth material, and then insert a tunnel lining of pre-prepared concrete segments.

One Herrenknecht and one Caterpillar machine were used, operating at speeds of up to 200 – 400m/week respectively. The Herrenknecht TBM was launched from a shaft at Eade Road, between Hackney and St John’s Wood. On reaching St John’s Wood it will be removed, packed up and sent back to Eade Road to be driven the other direction to Hackney. This is roughly 4.7m in diameter and 125m in length once you include all the systems on gantries required to power and maintain the machine - essentially a moving factory. The second (Caterpillar) machine is 3.5m diameter and approximately 90m in length.

Modern tunnelling machines have electronic - rather than hydraulic - control systems giving a greater degree of control and feedback. They can connect directly, via the internet, back to the manufacturer, so if there are any diagnostic issues they can be sorted much more quickly. Depending on the geology and in order to minimise any surface disruption or ’settlement’, TBMs use a process known as earth pressure balance (EPB), which involves putting pressure on the face of the tunnel behind an airlock in order to stabilise it.

A project of this scale obviously creates a lot of excavated material – up to 100 lorry loads per TBM a day. Once the soil ’arisings’ (mostly London clay)

have been passed down the TBM gantries and conveyed out of the tunnel, they will be reused to fill in the below ground voids of former gas-holder sites in the city and other such areas.

Once the tunnel is complete, it is cleaned and the high voltage cables will be pulled through the tunnel from large drums located at the drive sites. The cables are in 1km lengths which will be joined together using specialist techniques before they are brought up the shafts at either end of the route and connected to National Grid’s substations. The first tunnel will be energised in 2016.

The tunnel is designed for 120 years and the cables are designed for 40 years of life.

Overcoming the location challenges

A project this size is a major logistical and organisational challenge. London already has many tunnel networks which have to be taken into account when designing the project and through very careful surveying to select the best possible route.Construction in a densely populated urban area always presents many challenges; in London this is especially true.

This is one of the deepest tunnels in London, in order to go under the London Underground in places. The project also had to consider the future position of Crossrail and the Thames Tideway super sewer project.

Due to the high level of tunnelling activity in London the project took the decision to advance its shaft sinking schedule, partially to avoid any shortage of skills that may be caused by the demands of projects such as Crossrail.

Stakeholder and community liaison

National Grid is committed to working with local communities and to minimising the impact of its works wherever possible. With all the working sites in congested urban environments and most of the drives passing under residential areas, community/public relations plays a major role. It was key to combine the project with an educational programme – after all, the project will benefit Londoners directly though they may not be aware of this.

A new Energy Education Centre based at the home of the company’s London Power Tunnels project opened in June 2012. The free facility is aimed at primary and secondary school pupils to provide information about energy production, its usage and the need to change our relationship with energy now in order to safeguard our future. Visiting groups can explore the subject through a range of materials and interactive displays.

In true tunnelling tradition the TBM’s were given names, Cleopatra for the Hackney to St John’s Wood machine and Evelyn for the Willesden to St John’s Wood and Kensal Green to Wimbledon machine. The names were chosen by local youngsters who won a National Grid organised competition to name the machines.

Emphasis is placed on public exhibitions, project leaflets, creating and maintaining a dedicated community relations team and through supporting local media and community initiatives.

Further information can be obtained via theproject website:[email protected]


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Going undergroundAs with any project involving tunnelling under one of the world’s major cities, the London Power Tunnels scheme is a complex civil engineering undertaking. But the process to install cables in a tunnel environment also presents significant challenges.

> Tunnel cable machine used in the Croyden tunnel project.

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> Tunnel Cable Machine for Woodhead Tunnel, Pennines

With work on some tunnel sections nearing completion, attention is now turning to this next stage of the project. Electricity Alliance East (EAE), a National Grid-led partnership with Balfour Beatty, will commence cabling operations in October this year using Balfour Beatty’s innovative Tunnel Cabling Machine (TCM).

Traditional methods of cable installation

Traditionally, installing cables into tunnels has been an extremely labour intensive process. Typically, dozens of operatives are required to physically ‘pull’ the heavy cable down the tunnel using a winch and bond method. The cable would then be lifted onto brackets on the tunnel wall and manually sagged to allow for thermal expansion and contraction.

As well as putting significant strain on operatives, this approach requires a lot more people to enter the confined space of the tunnel. Somewhat paradoxically, in some tunnels with a larger diameter, considerations must also be given to working at height, especially when handling the heavy electricity cables. Both of these factors give rise to additional significant health and safety concerns.

In addition, the amount of manual handling involved in this method puts considerable stress on the cable itself, increasing the risk of damage during the installation process. The quality of installation can also be compromised. As the whole process is subject to human error, the placement of the cable inside the tunnel is not consistent, sometimes leading to expensive and time-consuming delays.

A new approach

When awarded the contracts by National Grid to install cables in two very different tunnel environments, Balfour Beatty was challenged to find a new way to undertake this process. Working with several specialist plant providers, and using knowledge from previous Balfour Beatty projects

with National Rail and London Underground, the company’s innovation and operational teams developed a new mechanised capability to undertake the entire installation process.

The Tunnel Cabling Machine technology is composed of a powered machine which runs along the tunnel floor and a monorail track system to support and guide the cable. The machine is equipped with motorised arms which lift the cable into place on the tunnel wall, and a laser guidance system to sag the cable to within 5mm accuracy before it is fixed in place by an operative.

This provides a smooth, continuous motion which reduces strain on the cable, and removes the human error factor from the installation process. Most importantly, the TCM provides a much safer installation method and cuts the number of people needed within the confined space of the tunnel.

Operational success

The Tunnel Cabling Machine is an umbrella term for a flexible technology which has been deployed on two projects in the UK over the last few years; the Croydon and Woodhead Tunnel projects.

The Croydon Tunnel connects two major substations in London, and is a similar tunnel environment to that of the London Power Tunnels. This project involved the installation of 31km of 400kV cable in a 10km stretch of tunnel, something which would have required 80 operatives using traditional methods of installation.

The TCM achieved the installation using a team of seven, with zero lost time safety incidents and a 33% reduction in project timescales. It also achieved the longest single continuous cable pull in Europe – an impressive 1.2km.

Cable tunnels can also be used where existing infrastructure exists and can be put to a new use. This is the case with the Woodhead Tunnel, a disused railway tunnel running under the Pennines, which was coincidentally originally built by Balfour Beatty in the 1950s, and has since been refurbished by National Grid.

Whereas the Croydon Tunnel is 3m in diameter, Woodhead is 7.6m, putting a different dimension on the needs of the technology. The TCM developed for this project looks radically different to the Croydon machine and incorporates safe platforms for working at the 4.5m cable height, but the fundamental principles remain. Again on this project, the TCM reduced the number of operatives needed to pull the cable, allowed the installation to take place with no safety incidents and achieved installation rates of 800m per day.

Gearing up for London Power Tunnels

Balfour Beatty is now getting ready to undertake the installation of 200km of cable for National Grid’s London Power Tunnels. A new purpose-built TCM has been developed, incorporating a number of changes specifically designed for the project. Amongst these is a simplified modular structure, allowing the machine to be lowered into the tunnel and assembled in place.

Balfour Beatty will also again be using a specially designed cable drum trailer to complement the TCM system. On the Croydon project 27 drums of cable were used, at a weight of 52 tonnes each. Moving these around site represents considerable safety hazard and a logistical challenge, often involving hiring large cranes. In London’s tight site spaces and with over six times the amount of cable being used for London Power Tunnels compared to Croydon, limiting these lifting operations is very important. The trailer reduced crane use by 66% on the Croydon project.

Another key lesson learnt from the Croydon project was the importance of training. For this project, Balfour Beatty has committed to using local, unemployed young people for the majority of operative positions. Recruitment will begin in London shortly, with trainees being put through a specialist tunnel training course at the Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy, before getting to grips with the TCM itself in a safe test environment.

For more details on the Tunnel Cabling Machine, search for Balfour Beatty on YouTube.


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Demonstrating best construction practiceBy Alan Atkinson, Project Manager, J. Murphy & Sons Limited

The Brecon to Tirley natural gas transmission pipeline was a substantial feat of civil engineering stretching 109 kilometres across south Wales, forming an important part of National Grid’s major infrastructure programme.The gas pipeline, which provides the UK with up to 20 percent of its required gas supply, extends and reinforces the National Transmission System, transporting natural gas from the Liquefied Natural Gas terminals at Milford Haven into supply at Gloucestershire.

The expansion of this pipeline network included a series of three new sections, with J. Murphy & Sons designing and constructing the 109km section from Brecon to Tirley in 2007. Following successful delivery of this pipeline infrastructure, two further related projects have also been undertaken by Murphy to complete the entire system from Tirley to Milford Haven.

The first project was the design, construction and commissioning of a new pressure reduction installation (PRI) at Treaddow. The second project and the final piece of the jigsaw, connecting into the existing National Transmission System (NTS) close to Tirley, near Gloucester, was Tirley PRI.

Design and build of Treaddow PRI

Treaddow is a major £12m high pressure natural gas installation with a variable outlet pressure ranging from 75 barg to 50 barg. The PRI was

designed and constructed by Murphy with design support from Jacobs Engineering Ltd.

Murphy undertook the design of the mechanical, civil, electrical, instrumentation, telemetry and control works in accordance with IGEM and National Grid standards. Seamless design, buildability and safety were ensured by the construction team’s early involvement into the design stage.

The construction process was initiated by a balanced cut and fill exercise followed by the main civils works of pipe trenches, concrete bases for buried pipework and above ground pipework bases as well as hard standings.

Introducing best practice and efficiency savings

Many of the buried concrete bases, buildings and modules were pre-cast off-site to minimise cost and maximise efficiency by reducing site labour and lorry movements to and from site as well as saving time on the programme. Since its implementation, this process has become a best practice promoted by National Grid.

Construction commenced shortly after planning permission was granted in June 2007 and the PRI was commissioned in July 2008.

Design and build of Tirley PRI

The design and build of one of the biggest PRIs in Europe at Tirley, which can supply up to 20 per cent of UK’s gas, was the final element of the overall scheme. Initially, the pipeline supplied gas at a maximum operating pressure of 75 barg to Tirley Above Ground Installation (AGI) and flowed into the existing NTS via feeder No. 2 and feederNo. 23.

A critical aspect of the project were the tie-ins of No. 2 feeder, the successful diversion of the existing 900mm diameter nominal bore No. 23 feeder pipeline from Tirley AGI, as well as, the extension and tie-in to the PRI of the 1220mm diameter nominal bore No. 28 feeder pipeline, approximately 900 metres long. The PRI replaced temporary interconnection pipework through the continuation of feeder No. 28. As the block valve and pipeline inspection facilities were provided by the new PRI, the existing AGI at Tirley was decommissioned and returned to a greenfield site.


> Tirley pressure reduction Image credit: Jason Pacey Installation

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Innovation

Murphy used innovative and advanced techniques throughout to deliver the project and achieved a National Grid first with the installation of a 48” grouted tee for a bag hole at Treaddow – a technique which was used on an X80 pipeline for a first time.

Using the same system employed at Treaddow, all buildings were pre-fabricated off-site in a controlled environment resulting in reduced contract programme and cost efficiencies. The Tirley PRI project involved a peak of 100 site personnel and achieved over 700,000 hours worked without a lost time incident (LTI) during the 18 month construction period.

Early involvement of experienced Murphy personnel working with designers, carrying out advanced planning and mitigation measures enabled the complex PRI project to be delivered two weeks ahead of programme and in a manner which minimised ecological impact and in many instances achieved long-term biodiversity enhancement.

The Tirley site has had many site visits from National Grid Board members and other senior personnel attracting many favourable comments including ‘one of the safest sites visited in my career’ and ‘best in class’.

Stakeholder and community liaison

Murphy is committed to continuous improvement and excellence in its operations. National Grid carried out a full communications programme throughout the lifecycle of both projects, so that residents and wider stakeholders were kept informed of the hours of work, the working arrangements and the duration of construction activities.

Murphy worked collaboratively with its supply chain, the community and all stakeholders to mitigate any potential disruption which construction activities may have had on the businesses and communities situated near the project sites.

Overcoming the location challenges

The Tirley site was in a sensitive location and work was delayed until consultations and planning was achieved.

The environmental impacts and the visual impact of the PRI were carefully considered in the planning and designing stages and once work commenced stakeholders were engaged and a good working relationship established.

The PRI perimeter was partially encompassed by a permanent earth bund, approximately 6m from

existing ground level at its highest. This forms a screen to help conceal the PRI, thus ensuring that the site landscape is in keeping with the rural environment of the surrounding area.

The site was laid out and organised with sustainability in mind and provided a template for similar future schemes. The bunds were constructed using recycled excavated material from other local construction companies carrying out projects in the area.

A sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS) was introduced to provide a robust water management system via a combination of lagoons, silt busters, pumps and vehicle wheel wash facility for all site vehicles and settlement areas.

As part of extensive waste management measures on the project, 99 per cent of all waste created by the site was recycled on site and reused.

During construction, the site was carefully laid out to incorporate all temporary works requirements safely including a pipe storage area, clearly marked pedestrian walkways, mechanical prefab shed and with existing pipeline, water courses and services clearly marked out and protected.

> Treddow pressure reduction installation > National Transmission System construction


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THE OLYMPIC LEGACYThe figures are well known - for five weeks in 2012, Stratford, London, welcomed 23,000 athletes and officials, over 20,000 media and 800,000 spectators, as 205 nations competed in 300 events, watched by a worldwide audience of billions.

The Games delivered on every level. The five major venues in Stratford’s Olympic Park were a sporting and architectural success, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies wowed viewers around the world - and who can forget Her Majesty The Queen seemingly parachuting into the Olympic Stadium, accompanied by James Bond?

The London 2012 vision ignited a transformation and renaissance in Stratford, which will give long lasting benefits to the local area and has been years in the planning. £12.5 billion has been invested into the area by the public and private sectors (not including the cost of building the Park) and the legacy that the Games leave behind is very real and will impact every part of the area insome way.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Since the closing ceremony, work has concentrated on removing temporary Games structures and linking the park to the local communities, integrating via new footpaths and cycle ways along with new bridges and underpasses. Part of the Olympic site will be transformed into the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and managed by the London Legacy Development Corporation which was set up in 2009.

The park will be 560 acres in size – equivalent to Hyde Park or 357 football pitches. 2,000 trees are being planted alongside ten hectares of meadow,

new lawns and two large allotment sites. Parts of the park will re-open on 27 July 2013 – exactly one year after the start of the Games. Designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is the UK’s tallest sculpture at 114m and will be a popular visitor attraction with unique views across London from two glass enclosed platforms. It will reopen from Spring 2014.

East Village E20

Built to house 17,000 athletes and officials during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Athletes’ Village is being transformed into ‘East Village’ - a new neighbourhood for London, due to be completed in Autumn 2013.

Jointly owned by Qatari Diar Delancey (a joint venture between Qatari Diar Real Estate Development Company and Delancey) and Triathlon Homes (a joint venture between First Base, East Thames Group and Southern Housing Group), this modern neighbourhood promises responsible, consistent landlord.

This long term approach should ensure high standards of service and care of the internal and external spaces for many years to come.

Designed for modern, spacious living by 16 international architects, East Village will deliver 2,818 new homes; 1,439 of which QDD will offer for private rent/sale, and 1,379 of which have been

purchased by Triathlon Homes to become high-quality affordable housing homes. All East Village homes are designed to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and new standards have been set for reducing environmental impact and carbon emissions.

All energy is produced locally through Combined Cooling Heat and Power (CCHP) Plants which reduces carbon emissions by 68% compared to similar residential developments.

Lasting Legacy

East Village will offer residents a choice of 1 bedroom apartments to 4 bedroom townhouses offering open-plan layouts, balconies and private courtyard gardens (240 of which have been built for wheelchair use), tree lined streets with views to open parkland, wetlands and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

All of the apartment buildings have living roofs designed to encourage wildlife. The area will have 30 local shops, cafes and restaurants and a world-class education campus, Chobham Academy, offering education to 1,800 students aged between 3 and 19 (which will open in September 2013).

Other facilities include a state-of-the-art medical centre, leisure facilities in the Olympic Park and beyond - parkland, waterways & trails – and Europe’s largest shopping centre, Westfield

The East Village will become a significant new community within London, surrounded by world-class sports venues, enviable shopping facilities and excellent transport links.Ralph Luck, Director of Property at the Olympic Delivery Authority

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Stratford City, just 5 minutes’ walk away. With transport connections including the Jubilee line, central line, DLR, Cross Rail, buses and all London airports reached within the hour, the area is extremely well connected.

East Village is at the heart of the wider transformation in East London. In total five new neighbourhoods will be developed in the area over 20 years, with up to 8,000 new homes (in addition to the 2,800 in the athletes’ village), 3 schools, 9 nurseries, 3 health centres and 29 playgrounds. ‘The greenway’ will be a 6 mile traffic free walkway from Hackney to Beckton.

The Olympics leaves a green legacy behind it with concentration on maximising green spaces and over 22 miles of interlinking pathways, waterways and cycle paths in the 252 acres. 6.5 kms of rivers and canals run through the Park and 111 acres of biodiverse wildlife habitat has been created including reedbeds, grasslands, ponds and woodlands, with 525 bird boxes and 150 bat boxes installed.

There are nine public transport lines feeding into Stratford station; after the Games this will increase to ten. This means that a train could arrive at the station every 15 seconds. By 2016, it’s estimated that the number of passengers using Stratford station each morning will reach 83,000.

The future of six of the eight permanent Games venues has already been secured (Aquatics Centre, Orbit, Multi-Use Arena, Olympic Village, Velodrome, Eton Manor) with the park offering sporting programmes for everything from grass roots community use to high performance competitions.

Stratford is expected to become one of London’s Top 10 visitor destinations by 2020 attracting local, regional, national and international visitors. It is estimated that the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park could attract more than 9million visitors per year from across London, the UK and abroad from 2016.

London has raised the bar on how to deliver a lasting legacy. This great historical city has created a legacy blueprint for future Games hosts.Jacques Rogge, International Olympic Committee President

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GAS STORAGE OPERATORS GROUP Centrica StorageCheshire Cavity Storage Group LtdE.ON Gas Storage UK LtdEDF Trading Gas Storage LimitedEni Uk LtdGateway Storage Company LtdHalite Energy GroupHumbly Grove Energy LtdINEOS Enterprises LtdIslandmagee Storage LtdKing Street EnergyScottishPower Energy Management LtdSSE Hornsea LtdStatoilStorengyWINGAS Storage UK Ltd

NETWORK ENGINEERING GROUP GL Noble DentonAMEC Group LimitedBalfour Beatty Utility SolutionsBureau VeritasCarillion Utility ServicesClancy Docwra LimitedDenholm Pipecare LtdEnterprise plcFulcrum Future Energy GroupJ Murphy & SonsMorland Utilities LtdMorrision Utility ServicesNational GridNorthern Energy Connections LtdNorthern Gas Networks LtdP N Daly LimitedVeolia Water Outsourcing Ltd

DATA & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGEMENT Alcatel LucentArqivaBglobal Metering LtdElectralinkELEXONFerranti Computer SystemsHewlett PackardDNV KEMA LtdSensus Conservation SolutionsSmarter Metering Services LtdPanasonic Industrial Devices Sales Europe GmbHPower Plus Communications AGSilver Spring Networks UK & IrelandXemex NV

METERING TECHNOLOGY GROUP D I UK LimitedElster MeteringGeorge Wilson Industries LimitedItron Metering SolutionsLandis+GyrSecure Meters

METERING SERVICES GROUP Axiom Metering LtdCalvin Asset ManagmentE.ON Energy SolutionsEDF Energy Customer Field ServicesEnergy Assets Ltd (was Pulse 24)G4S Utility Services LtdGentrackLowri Beck Services LtdProvidorSiemens Metering, Communications & ServicesTuffentech Services Ltd

DISTRIBUTION & TRANSMISSIONEQUIPMENT GROUP Aeon International LtdAVK UK LtdCrane Ltd t/a WASKDrain CenterFiorentini UK LimitedFusion Provida LimitedGas Measurement Instruments Ltd.George Fischer Sales LimitedGPSPLCS LimitedRadius Systems LtdSARCO Stopper LtdSynthotech Special Products Limited

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Mike Stratton & Associates LtdByBoxCapita Symonds LtdCEVA Logistics LimitedCNG Services LtdDevelop Training LtdEngage ConsultingEnzen Global LtdGeneris Technology LtdGtcKingsley Plastics LtdLightsout Computer ServicesLomax Training Services LtdRhead Group LtdSimply Marcomms Ltd (SMPR)Xoserve

New Members & Directory

Simply MarcommsSMPR (Simply Marcomms Ltd) are pleased to be new members of the Energy & Utilities Alliance. SMPR are leading providers in energy PR solutions, offering a full range of bespoke online PR services for companies throughout the UK working in the energy and utilities sector.

We are in the business of gaining coverage for your company, managing your online reputation, your brand or your products & services and driving relevant traffic to your website. Using the latest techniques in online PR, we will increase your online visibility and influence your online audiences.

If you have an energy efficient product or service, SMPR can help you reach your target audience with your chosen messages. We currently help a number of organisations involved in the Green Deal, The CRC Scheme and The EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive).

SMPR (Simply Marcomms Ltd) have developed close relationships with all energy, environmental and utility focused key trade publications and frequently attend and assist clients at energy, environmental and utility industry awards and events. Online we are connected through LinkedIn and Twitter with key industry influencers, editors and energy, environmental and utility industry social networking groups and online forums. Our access to this scale of reach means that we can easily increase your digital footprint.

SMPR (Simply Marcomms Ltd) welcomes the chance to work closely with other members of EUA so do not hesitate to get in contact if you are interest in increasing your online presence, or need any PR help for your energy or utilities company.

Contact

For more information, please contact SMPR (Simply Marcomms Ltd):Kirstie Colledge - 0870 199 [email protected]

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PanasonicPanasonic are delighted to join Energy & Utilities Alliance. Panasonic has long history in providing components for the smart gas meter business in Japan, and in recent years has expanded to bring our suite of products to the UK and wider European markets. Becoming a member of both HHIC and UN is a natural step for Panasonic to become more involved in industry trends in the British market.

With our roots traditionally in home appliance and audio-visual electronics, 30 years ago Panasonic was asked by the major Japanese gas utilities to provide safety devices for gas meters, to reduce the accidents caused by gas, resulting in the advent of the “microcomputer” gas meter. This development ushered in a range of products from Panasonic, including shut off valves, seismic & pressure sensors, main meter controllers and wireless communications for smart gas meters.

Panasonic has since expanded our product range to include an ultrasonic measurement unit for gas meters. Panasonic’s ultrasonic measurement unit not only facilitates development time for gas meter manufacturers transitioning from mechanical to static meters, but also disaggregated gas measurement down to each gas appliance, allowing for visualisation of the gas usage of heating and cooking equipment in the home, including micro CHP. This technology for ‘gas’ energy management can be used to promote gas as a key energy source and encourage the use of efficient gas appliances in European markets.

Panasonic is already supplying ultrasonic measurement units, wireless technology, shut off valves and smart indexes to the UK and wider European markets. For the emerging standards on wireless technology for gas meters, Panasonic has participated in a number of trials on the European continent.

Panasonic looks forward to learn more about the British heating and gas meter markets through our membership, and welcomes the chance to work closely with the other members of EUA and its divisions.

Contact

For any more information and Panasonic’s smart gas meter components or fuel cells, please contact Panasonic:Richard Sedgwick +49-(0)1736-259-302Email: [email protected]

Silver Spring Networks UKand IrelandWith more than ten years of experience, Silver Spring Networks is the leader in networking technologies that modernize today’s energy grids. We have delivered more than 15.8 million Silver Spring-enabled devices, which our energy partners rely on, in concert with our software and services, to improve energy management and efficiency. Silver Spring securely connects consumers and energy providers through powerful and proven energy networks that can be easily expanded as needs evolve.

Our open, standards-based networking solutions enable all energy devices, from in-home energy devices to smart meters to load control devices, to connect together to deliver the highest performance possible. By connecting homes and businesses directly with their local utility, we help everyone manage and integrate renewable energy sources better, enabling energy companies and consumers to partner in demand response, bringing greater energy efficiency to the planet and our world.

Silver Spring Networks delivers the smart grid standards-based, IPv6 networking platform, software and services that enable utilities to easily deploy, monitor, and scale multiple smart grid applications on a single unified network. Our robust Smart Energy Platform™ supports advanced metering, outage restoration, distribution automation, demand side management and load management operations, allowing utilities to improve smart energy management, while enhancing customer service and reducing costs. With a decade of proven success in the utility applications space, Silver Spring connects more homes and businesses around the world than any other smart grid provider. We have now begun to extend significantly that reach into smart city applications through networked smart streets, communities and cities.

Silver Spring UK and Ireland is based in central London and is working with suppliers, energy network companies, communities and technology partners to enable the smart energy market and its evolution to be part of the UK Information Economy. For more information seehttp://www.silverspringnet.com

Contact

To discuss our value please contact:Mark Coyle, Sales & Business Development Lead for UK and IrelandEmail: [email protected]

For information on attending, speaking, sponsoring or exhibiting at any of the above events,please contact Vanessa Webster: e: [email protected] or t: 01926 513763

May 1ICOM LunchRAF Club, London

One of the premier events in the commercial and industrial heating calendar.

May 7EUA/IGEM Awards LunchHilton on Park Lane, London

Once again over 600 senior representatives of the gas industry and guests from Government and its agencies are expected at this prestigious event.

June 12Data & Communications forSmart MeteringIET, London

This conference will take a broad look at end-to-end data and communications issues through the eyes of industry stakeholders.

July 9UtilityInfrastructureSolutionsOne Great George Street, London

A timely update on latest policy and practice affecting the providers of energy utility infrastructure and present and future market challenges

September 26Utility MeteringNational Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham

The programme will address policy, strategic objectives and gather stakeholder opinion from across the supply chain and data and communications providers.

“Definitely the leading lighton SMART”

Encore Energy(Utility Metering 2012)

October 30Utility Asset ManagementPwC, London

This event will provide delegates with a wide range of experience and share best practice approaches within the industry.

“Very clear and engaging presentations on an underrated area of business”

N Power(Utility Asset Management 2012)

November 14Gas 2013Birmingham

A high profile annual seminar that will see senior decision makers debating current and future gas industry challenges

“People, place, topics, camaraderie were the best features of the seminar; very good speakers and content”

Skanska(Gas 2012)

EUA Events 2013

www.eua-events.org.uk• Never miss details of latest EUA events - straight to your inbox

• Event coverage • Speaker profiles• See who is speaking, sponsoring, supporting

• Find out more about sponsor and exhibiting opportunities

It’s straight forward; just visit www.eua-events.org.uk and click on receive event updates.

Sign upNOW!

New for2013

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Traditionally, apprentices have worked in industries such as manufacturing - but in early 2012, a group of 40 employers in the professional services sector, large and small, came together to design the content of the new Professional Services Higher Apprenticeship (PSHA), led by PwC.

PwC ApprenticeshipThe PwC Higher Apprenticeship programme is a real alternative for talented students who want to get into business straight from school or college, but without compromising on high quality training and development. The programme offers students the chance to earn while they learn, and work towards an internationally recognised industry qualification in tax, consulting and audit. This year the firm will recruit around 109 Higher Apprentices across the UK almost a ten percent increase on last year, with Management Consulting vacancies trebling from six to almost 20.

The PSHA pathways in audit, tax and consulting are equivalent to first level higher education and each is composed of three elements:

• Technical knowledge: Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales’ (ICAEW’s) Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB) qualification for the audit pathway; Associate of Tax Technicians (ATT) qualification for taxation; and, Certificate in Management Consulting, a new theory qualification for management consulting.

• Practice: demonstrating competence in audit / tax / consulting methods and tools, and regulatory and technical updates.

• Business skills: demonstrating competence in managing performance, business and commercial awareness, and communication skills.

PwC has recently expanded its Higher Apprenticeship recruitment in management consulting, and will recruit into the firm’s Business Recovery Services team for the first time. PwC will recruit six Higher Apprenticeships into the team, which has worked on high profile administrations including Lehman Brothers and retailers Game and Jessops.

Students will join the firm’s Tax, Consulting and Assurance teams, working on live business assignments as part of a two year training programme, during which they will gain knowledge of the industry and market, technical skills, leadership skills and commercial awareness, while studying for a professional qualification accredited by the relevant national industry accreditation bodies.

Since launching the Higher Apprenticeship, applications to the school leaver entry programmes have increased 43%. In February alone, PwC received over 250 applications for the first 60 vacancies in the firm’s tax division.

CHALLENGING THE PERCEPTIONSOF APPRENTICESHIPSApprenticeships have existed in Britain for over 650 years, as a way to train people in new skills, while providing paid work experience.

Case study- Ryan Bright, Consulting Apprentice

I chose to do Higher Apprenticeship at PwC because I felt that university was not the only route to a successful career. This apprenticeship programme gives me the opportunity to kick start my career early. I am given the chance to study towards a professional qualification, gain invaluable industry experience at a firm renowned for one of the best training and development systems in the world, and all the while earning a competitive salary, avoiding the rising debts associated with university. Providing I perform well throughout this 2 year programme I will be given the opportunity to join PwC’s highly regarded graduate scheme without having been to university. I will be a step ahead of my peers who will be spending 3 or 4 years studying towards a degree.

I am doing a Higher Apprenticeship in Management Consulting. The programme lasts just over 2 years, and involves multiple rotations around the different business units within Consulting, enabling me to expand my knowledge in a wide range of areas. I am currently working in Learning & Development, and really enjoying it. I have a very supportive team which has allowed me to integrate and become a valued team member. I have also been given a lot of responsibility which, although challenging, is great for my personal development.

Recently, I delivered a session at our Experienced Hire induction programme. I presented to all grades, from new joiners right up to Director and Partner, which was a great learning experience. Alongside practical work, I am also working towards a Level 4 Qualification in Management Consulting, equivalent to a foundation degree. This involves completing regular work books and learning logs, and sitting 5 exams over the next 2 years.

I would definitely recommend Higher Apprenticeships as a way to kick start your career and gain the experience that will allow you to stand out to employers. You gain an incredible set of skills which you can then apply to any future aspirations.

To find out more about the PSHA, go to www.pwc.co.uk/higherapprenticeships or contact [email protected]


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In 2010, when the payment of Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) by licensed electricity suppliers to generators of small-scale low carbon electricity was first introduced, many community groups saw an opportunity both to contribute to the Government’s energy targets and help local residents.

At the time, this was billed as a big step in the right direction but, three years later, a combination of UK Government and European Commission policy decisions have undermined the scheme’s potential for growth in the community renewable sector, despite cross-party support for FITs.

The experience of one group, MOZES (Meadows Energy Services Limited), a not for profit community owned energy company working in the Meadows, a deprived residential area of Nottingham, illustrates how well intentioned community groups looking to participate in low carbon renewable electricity generation using the FIT scheme, have been caught out by UK Government policy.

Originally, Government policy was that FITs would only be available to projects where state aid rules (which prohibit national governments from providing financial assistance or economic support where it may distort competition and affect trade between EU member states) were not offended.

There was however a lack of clarity about what this would mean and whether projects could benefit from both the FIT and also public grants, including the Government’s Low Carbon Communities Challenge (LCCC) grant.

As the recipient of an LCCC grant, this lack of clarity resulted in serious problems for MOZES. MOZES used LCCC funding to install solar panels

throughout the Meadows; donating some to local schools and community buildings on which they were installed, with the remainder generating FIT income for use by MOZES to alleviate fuel poverty among Meadows residents.

It was an express term of the LCCC grant that equipment installed by MOZES using the grant would be eligible to receive the FIT. However, following a European Commission (EC) decision in April 2010 that the FIT regime constitutes state aid in April 2010, UK Government policy changed. From May 2010, it was made clear that any organisation that had received public funding for their renewable installation above the state aid “de minimis” threshold was prohibited from claiming the FIT.

This change of policy threw the MOZES project and others into turmoil. Many had taken out loans, committed expenditure and framed business plans on the basis of the Government’s assurance that they would be able to claim FITs once renewable electricity generation equipment was installed. With a raft of pro bono legal support facilitated by Carbon Leapfrog, MOZES is continuing to seek a solution to its resulting difficulties. Many other projects will not even have been this fortunate.

However, worse was to come for more recently established community groups, which relied on public funding to launch their project. From July 2011, a further change of Government policy has meant that a community project will not be eligible for FIT if it has previously benefitted from any previous public funding, irrespective of state aid considerations or any minimum permitted threshold.

When will Government policy on community owned renewables be FIT for purpose? Community owned renewables are potentially an important contributor to help the UK achieve its target of 15% of energy consumption from renewable sources by 2020. Perhaps even more importantly, they represent an opportunity to effect wider behavioural change by fostering public support for renewable energy generation as a whole.

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When will Government policy on community owned renewables be FIT for purpose? Community owned renewables are potentially an important contributor to help the UK achieve its target of 15% of energy consumption from renewable sources by 2020. Perhaps even more importantly, they represent an opportunity to effect wider behavioural change by fostering public support for renewable energy generation as a whole.

Simon Steeden and Sarah Payne

Simon Steeden is a Senior Associate at Bates Wells & Braithwaite London LLP, leading legal advisers to not for profit organisations and businesses with social purposes. Simon is also a non-executive director of Friends of the Earth.

Sarah Payne is a Solicitor in the Environment and Sustainability team at BWB.

Simon and Sarah are part of a working group co-ordinated by Carbon Leapfrog which is assisting MOZES to challenge the government’s policy on state aid and community energy projects.

Community groups by their nature are often dependent on voluntary time and donated income to get started. This is particularly true of those in the community energy sector, which require considerable start up capital and grants from public bodies or funds. So, prohibiting the receipt of both grant funding and the FIT, without any consideration of the unique circumstances of community projects, inevitably slants Government policy against the growth of community owned schemes.

Hopes for a more proportionate approach?

There have been positive steps towards a more proportionate approach to incentivising community energy projects, following concerted efforts by the renewables industry to raise awareness of the potential damage.

In the 2011 Budget, it was announced that businesses using FIT to generate income could no longer also benefit from up to 30% tax relief through the EIS Enterprise Investment Scheme. However after a concerted campaign by the community renewables sector, the Government partially reversed this decision, allowing community energy projects benefiting from FITs to continue to qualify for EIS tax relief.

In addition, as part of a review of FIT regime, the Government has introduced a “community energy project” definition for use in the FIT scheme with the aim of “facilitating greater access to FITs for community energy projects” by removing “upfront barriers”. It is not yet clear how this will be achieved beyond lighter energy efficiency requirements for community projects. However, formal recognition of their unique circumstances and benefits could provide an opportunity for more proportionate application of state aid rules to community benefit projects. Community owned energy schemes

like MOZES, which benefit both the Government’s own renewables agenda and local people in their communities, will be watching with anticipation of a positive outcome.

In partnership with Carbon Leapfrog, BWB has taken an active role in helping MOZES to challenge government policy and continues to campaign on its behalf.

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Next issue SummerRenewable Energy & InfrastructureDevelopments in renewable energy and associatedpolicy as well as utility infrastructure solutions. Autumn/ WinterTransforming the way customers engage with energyState of play ahead of the official start of the UK’s smart meter rollout programme in 2014, in particular how ready are consumers.

AdvertisingRaise your profile or support your sales and marketing effort through advertising in the magazine.

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UTILITYBUSINESSTHE DIVISIONAL MAGAZINE FROM EUA UTILITY NETWORKS

SPRING 2013

In this issue:• The Olympic Legacy• Utility Street Works Update

• Challenging the Perceptions of Apprenticeships

• New Columnist Nick Eyre, University of Oxford

ISSUE FEATURE:BUILDINGOUR ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE

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Download the media pack -www.utility-business.org.uk-----------------------------------------Get in touch with editor Caroline Taylor [email protected] 01926 513762


26

Member News

DNV and GL to mergeDNV and GL are to merge and the new entity will be called DNV GL Group.

The new company will be one of the world’s leading independent technical service providers. With more than 17,000 employees and an extensive global network of offices, DNV GL Group will be headquartered and registered in Oslo, Norway.

Fulcrum behind Olympic FlameFulcrum has revealed its involvement in the iconic Olympic Cauldron at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Being one of the first businesses to be granted a licence agreement has enabled it to promote its contribution to the Olympics.

The centrepiece of Fulcrum’s contribution was the construction of the gas pipework fuelling the moving petals of flame which came together to form the innovative Olympic Cauldron – seen by many as the ultimate emblem of the London 2012 Games. They installed a pipe network feeding the cauldron delivering 1,000 cubic metres of gas an hour at a minimum pressure of 1.99 Bar.

Fulcrum provided utility infrastructure design, planning, engineering, construction and project management services over a three year period leading up to the Games as well as providing 24-hour gas safety and security cover for the duration of the event. Sales and marketing director Richard Atkinson. “Many people at Fulcrum contributed many hours of expertise over many years to make our contribution a success and we are immensely proud of the role we played in making London 2012 the best Olympics to date.”

Fulcrum Pipelines Limited won a competitive Olympic Delivery Authority tender to own and operate all gas pipework, even that installed by other utility infrastructure providers, across the Olympic Park, the Athletes’ Village and the nearby Westfield Shopping Centre as well as that serving two main energy centres within the Olympic Park.

Polyplastic Group Acquires Radius SystemsPolyplastic Group has acquired full ownership of Radius Systems and its subsidiary companies.

Radius Systems employs 370 people across three sites – the Derbyshire head office and two in Northern Ireland. Polyplastic has production plants in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Kazakhstan. The business will continue to trade under the Radius Systems, Radius Plastics and Radius Plus brands.

Morrison Utility Services and Skanska UK joint venture (tRIIO) awarded £1.6billion gas infrastructure agreement by National GridtRIIO, a joint venture between Morrison Utility Services and Skanska UK has been awarded an eight-year project to help deliver National Grid’s gas mains replacement programme, as well as elements of capital expenditure delivery and operational support services. The contract is worth £1.6 billion.

As an equal joint venture between Morrison Utility Services and Skanska UK, tRIIO represents a strategic response to the new operating environment created by RIIO. With a strong strategic fit, complementary strengths and common values, tRIIO will be responsible for delivery of investment in two of National Grid’s four regional gas distribution networks in the UK: the East of England and North London.

As well as gas mains replacement, the scope of the contract includes connections, diversions, reinforcements and wider asset replacement activities and resource provision.

The contract commences in April 2013 for a period of eight years through to March 2021.

Clancy Group plc training awards successThe Clancy Group Plc held its 2012 Annual Clancy Group Training and Development Awards on the 21st November in Harefield - with awards presented by Neil Robertson, CEO of Energy and Utility Skills.

Over 70 employees have achieved qualifications this year, including Apprentices and Graduates, as well as many others who have worked hard to achieve various awards. The event also celebrated the achievements of the mentors, managers and colleagues who support the Training and Development of these individuals.

Commenting on the day, Neil Robertson said, “In delivering such a comprehensive and expanding programme, Clancy Docwra is very forward thinking. This is great practice that we would commend to others. I’m sure Clancy will see a bottom line return in the short and medium term.”

RadiusPLUS winproduct innovationRadiusPLUS has been awarded first prize for their next generation MiniMuss branch saddle technology at a Pipeline Industries Guild Product Innovation event.

The award was delivered in recognition of the huge benefits brought to the water and gas distribution sectors by the development of their new design MiniMuss branch saddle connection range.

Why not take at look at the new WASK Riser & Lateral modularsystem whichenables PE pipeworkto supply gas to multi-occupancy dwellings.

The system has been proven to reduceinstallation and maintenance costs by up to40% compared to all-steel alternatives.

Recentlyinstalled atElmcroft Housein Smethwick,Birminghamthe WASK Riser& Lateralinstallationwas quick & easy, without theneed for skilled welders, taking just 3 daysper riser to install 6 x 15 storey risers.

In addition, unlike the steel system, it islightweight, resistant to expansion,maintenance free and is highly corrosionresistant, even in harsh environments.

So call us now on +44 (0)1744 458633 for an information pack or for moredetails check out the web site.

www.wask-uk.com

F R O M M A I N S TO M E T E R

GAS SUPPLY FORHIGH RISE BUILDINGS…

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