28 June 2023

Reputably the largest single contract SP Energy Networks has ever let, Rugby headquartered Quartzelec, a leading independent engineering service provider with facilities throughout the UK and an ever‑extending global reach, envisages this major deal over the initial three- plus optional-two years extension will have a significant positive impact on operational growth.

The framework contracts announced at the beginning of April 2023 are part of the next OfGEM price control period, and SP Energy Network’s ambitious RIIO-ED2 Business Plan for their distribution network, that details the £3.3 billion worth of spending needed to ready the UK for an electric future.  

Distribution and transmission network operator SP Energy Networks embrace more than 100,000km of network cabling, 30,000 substations and all to the benefit of more than 3.5m homes and businesses across Scotland, England, and Wales. Their vision is to develop a network that can meet the challenge of Net Zero carbon emissions utilising new low carbon technologies integrated into the distribution grid.

Quartzelec has been successful in securing the opportunity to support three of the four key framework workstreams; LV Network Electricals & Civils, LV Network Electrical plus Rising Lateral Mains & Mural Wiring that will help develop the network to achieve their goals whilst keeping electricity flowing to homes and businesses throughout Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and North Shropshire.

The business secured this win through its experience and management expertise along with its transparency and the trust that has developed through its successful relationship with SP Energy Networks over recent years.

Quartzelec will prioritise a range of LV Service work, including underground jointing works/looped services and will be working alongside other key industry contractors.

Multiple Quartzelec jointing teams are already located across the regions and together will meet initial project requirements, further supported by skilled apprentices already part of Quartzelec’s award winning training scheme. A significant recruitment programme, backed by the necessary investment, has also already commenced to ensure future growth expectations can be met and that all other existing contracts and work paths will remain unaffected.

“SP Energy Networks have some significant targets to achieve as we move towards 2030 but we are delighted to be part of their delivery solution,” stated Chris Fergus, Quartzelec’s Business Manager for Utilities. “We have already hit the ground running and recruitment of the right people is a critical part of our plan. Whilst we have an excellent team already in place, we are also directly investing in the future by expanding our apprenticeships programme and via our own ambitious recruitment plans to attract, develop and retain key skills and people.”

Vicky Kelsall, SP Energy Networks’ CEO commented: “Throughout the development of our plan our customers’ voices were clear – we must be bold as we reimagine our network, support the UK’s accelerated road to Net Zero, create a green recovery, and stimulate more high-quality jobs. That’s what we are committed to delivering”.

Chris Fergus added “It’s a testament to the hardwork and dedication of our Utilities Teams based across Scotland, England and Wales that has led to our contract award success. We are delighted to be able to play such a significant role in the development of an innovative grid system which will support the rapid consumer adoption of low carbon technologies as well as the future change in electricity demand - helping SP Energy Networks meet the needs of our communities, now and in the future”.

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