Post - Blog
When it comes to connecting new solar facilities to the National Grid, appointing an Independent Connection Provider can be an economic, efficient and standardised option for developers. Dave Ogden , commercial director at Smith Brothers, explores the benefits that can be gained from enlisting such turnkey service providers.
EM-Power 2024
Demand for renewable energy solutions has been rising steadily over the past few decades – a trend which has significantly impacted upon the entire supply chain, from network operators through to consumers. And now, largely thanks to the falling cost of wind and solar projects and advancements in battery storage technology, renewables account for around a third of energy generation in the UK – with estimated investments of £20 billion into sustainable power generation expected by the time we reach 2030.
So, with more solar PV projects on the horizon throughout the UK and beyond, a growing number of developers are enlisting the expertise of Independent Connection Providers (ICPs) to get these sites linked into the local network and supplying vital energy.
Posing a competitive alternative option to Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs), ICPs are certified to act on behalf of the developer, to carry out the connection works required to link new sites to the National Grid. Brought in as a means of boosting competition within the new connections market, ICP accreditation is awarded through the National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) and reviewed by the Lloyd’s Register and the UK’s electricity sector regulator, Ofgem. This rigorous auditing process ensures that high standards relating to environmental, safety and quality specifications are met by all contractors awarded ICP status.
End-to-end project management
The end-to-end process for connecting a new solar site to the grid – from design to energisation – can range from 14 weeks for 11kV, to 6 months for 33kV and a year for 66/132kV. That’s why meticulous planning, proactive thinking and efficient scheduling tools are vital for managing each stage of the project, ultimately ensuring its wider success.
By working back from the energisation date, key milestones throughout the connection process can be pinpointed and used to keep the work on track. Outage conditions are inevitable when it comes to safely linking a new solar facility into the local distribution network, so the ICP has to work with the DNO far in advance to schedule this deadline. And completing the required works within these timescales is essential to mitigate any avoidable disruption.
A multi-disciplined team
Managing everything from the design and procurement of components, to on-site civils and electrical engineering, commissioning and testing, a reliable ICP will have a large amount of expertise within its team. Whilst specialist technical knowledge is vital, exceptional management skills and a dedication to meeting high safety standards are similarly essential.
As a foundation, an ICP will possess an in-depth understanding surrounding networks and distribution transmission, switchgear and protection, construction and planning requirements. And as technology continues to evolve at an ever-increasing pace, investing in continual workforce training, research and development is also crucial, to ensure everyone is up to speed with the latest regulations and equipment.
Clear communication
There are distinct stages involved in getting a solar site up and running, so clear channels of communication are key to facilitating the smooth and efficient handover from one phase to another. From initial surveys and design, through cabling and civils work, to final testing and commissioning, different in-house teams will undoubtedly be involved in the process – including procurement management, project management, quantity surveying, programme management, site management and on-site personnel. Strong teamwork is therefore important to ensure everyone is working together and towards the same goal.
Building good relationships with third parties is also vital – alongside the client, ICPs must also liaise closely with the DNO and any external consultants to ensure everyone is happy with how the assignment is progressing. Balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders is always challenging, but having just one contractor managing the engineering elements makes the whole process far more transparent and straightforward to manage.
Freedom and flexibility
There’s no ‘one size fits all’ where solar projects are concerned, which is a large reason why tailored turnkey services offered by ICPs are becoming increasingly sought after. Working closely with the developer is a given when an independent contractor is enlisted, so although DNO policies and regulations still require close attention and adherence, solar firms are afforded greater opportunity for input into the design elements of the connection. This flexibility can prove vital, particularly when it comes to keeping costs to a minimum and meeting tight energisation deadlines set by the network operator.
Of course, no two connection assignments are the same, so bespoke components often need to be procured to fulfil client requirements – particularly when it comes to more complex solar facilities. Such one-of-a-kind turnkey electrical solutions require proactive planning, which means that the procurement phase frequently starts months before construction work commences on-site.
A reliable ICP will recognise the importance of such preparation – and factor it in from the very beginning of a project – further evidencing the ‘bigger picture’ outlook independent contractors have, which solar developers are increasingly seeking.