This week, our teams have been working in Essex, completing protection works for Cadent Gas within a Vehicle Restraint System (VRS) area at Stansted Airport.
The site sits in the airport’s main air‑cargo hub, which is a busy industrial estate with constant movements of HGVs, cargo trucks and service vehicles. Because so many large vehicles operate in tight spaces, the area is extremely traffic‑sensitive and required careful planning to ensure safety and avoid disruption.
This was a full design-and-build project for our teams. As part of the design phase, we carried out a detailed risk assessment using Department for Transport guidance and UK Roads Liaison Group standards. This allowed us to understand the level of risk posed by local traffic and select the most appropriate barrier system for the location.
Our teams worked closely with all stakeholders to agree the final design. This included securing approval from Manchester Airport Group (site owners) for a solution that would provide robust protection for the gas governor while keeping the impact on road users to a minimum and reducing disruption during installation.
Our teams installed eight heavy-duty safety bollards around the existing gas governor to safeguard critical gas infrastructure from potential vehicle impact.
The works were delivered by our operations team, led by Andy Magor, within the highly controlled airport environment. All safety procedures were strictly followed, and the project was completed ahead of schedule.
Planning had presented additional challenges due to limited access windows and the presence of numerous underground services. Despite the project’s relatively small scale, we approached the pre‑construction phase with the same level of detail and diligence as a major scheme, ensuring all approvals, safety checks and service investigations were completed before work began.
Through thorough planning and professional delivery, IES completed the installation demonstrating the high standard of service we bring to every project, regardless of size.
Recently, our team completed a package of specialist 66kV and 220kV cable works offshore on behalf of Equans through challenging weather conditions.
Our specialist cable jointers supported the project with cable pulling, routing, cleating, Pfisterer jointing, HV/MV terminations into 66kV and 220kV GIS, Brattberg seal installation, and full HV testing to IEC standards.
All activities required close coordination with multiple OEMs and strict compliance with DNV, BS, IEC and ENA requirements.
Offshore conditions introduced tight operating limits on temperature, wind and humidity, alongside confined routing within multi‑voltage OSP structures.
Through careful planning, clear communication, and specialist tooling, the team executed every stage safely, efficiently and to the highest technical standard.
The result: a fully compliant, high‑integrity cable system installation delivered smoothly on behalf of Equans, reinforcing reliability, strengthening the wider offshore programme and maintaining client confidence.
Today, we’re celebrating the incredible women across the company, from those out in the field, to the teams keeping our people safe, to the colleagues working behind the scenes to keep everything moving. Your dedication, expertise and energy drive IES forward every single day.
Earlier this year, we launched our Extra Mile Awards, giving colleagues the chance to recognise those who consistently go above and beyond. In our first round of nominations, we heard from some of the outstanding women who were put forward, and what it means to be recognised by their peers.
Mia, nominated for the Extra Mile Integrity Award, shared:
“I’m very grateful to be nominated for the Extra Mile Integrity Award. As a SHEQ Advisor in the Utilities Industry, my role is all about making sure we do the right thing – keeping people safe, protecting the environment, and maintaining the highest standards in everything we do. For me, Integrity is at the heart of that. With International Women’s Day this week, it’s also a great opportunity to recognise the growing contribution of women in our industry and continue encouraging more women to pursue careers in utilities.”
Sarah, Sandra and Gemma from our Gas Document Control & Databook team, nominated for the Excellence Award said, “This award is especially meaningful in an industry that’s traditionally male‑dominated. Recognition like this helps shine a light on the leadership and innovation women bring, and shows how much progress we can make when our ideas and achievements are valued.”
In an industry that has traditionally seen fewer women entering technical and frontline careers, we’re proud to champion change, encouraging more women to join the utilities sector and build their careers with us, from our future leaders to our planners and field teams.
We also recently welcomed Suzie to our Business Development team. Here’s what she had to say about starting her journey with us:
“Starting here has shown me just how much opportunity there is for women in this industry. Joining the team I didn’t really know what to expect but it has been nothing short of a welcoming & inclusive experience. I can’t wait to see what is to come.”
Fidra, a small rocky outcrop off the East Lothian coast, is beautiful, remote, and environmentally precious. It is also tide dependent, meaning every movement of people, tools, and materials must be planned with absolute accuracy. For Scottish Power Renewables, upgrading the electrical infrastructure on such a location required both technical expertise and a deep respect for the island’s protected status — and our teams were ready to rise to the challenge.
A Project Shaped by Its Environment
From the outset, site conditions dictated the pace of work. Access to Fidra was limited by vessel schedules, weather, and tides, meaning each day began with careful planning before the team even reached the island. All equipment, from hand tools to heavy cable sections, had to be manually transported across uneven terrain using certified lifting aids, as no vehicles were permitted.
As a Special Protection Area and SSSI, Fidra required heightened environmental discipline. The team worked with strict vigilance, employing spill kits, drip trays, controlled waste systems, and a firm ‘leave no trace’ approach to protect the sensitive ecosystem. Every action was carried out with minimal impact in mind.
Delivering High Voltage Expertise in Low Margin Conditions
On arrival, the team completed site induction, verified certifications, and established safe access and controlled work zones. Jointing works were carried out in line with manufacturer requirements and HV best practice – from cable preparation and sheath removal to screen management, crimping, heat‑shrink application, and final terminations. All activities were overseen by SPEN Senior Authorised Personnel to ensure strict compliance with safety documentation, isolation protocols, and permit controls. Despite the challenging environment, the team delivered the installation with accuracy and professionalism, with the Lead Jointer completing final inspections on each joint.
Safety at the Heart of Every Decision
Safety remained central throughout the project. Daily toolbox talks, continuous supervision, and strict controls addressed risks related to HV work, manual handling, uneven terrain, and the use of heat‑shrink materials and propane. PPE, COSHH‑assessed materials, and clear emergency procedures were embedded in all activities.
This disciplined approach delivered the project’s key outcome: zero incidents, accidents, or near misses.
Protecting a Unique Island — Every Step of the Way
Environmental stewardship was treated with the same importance as technical delivery. All waste generated from the jointing process was collected, secured, and transported off the island for proper disposal. Fuel handling was tightly controlled. Spill response equipment was kept close at hand at all times — though, thanks to careful working practices, it was never needed. The team left the island exactly as they found it.
A Successful Outcome in a Demanding Setting
Despite tight tide windows, sensitive habitats, challenging terrain, and strict safety controls, the team delivered the full 11kV jointing programme safely, on schedule, and to specification. The Scottish Power Renewables project manager praised the team’s professionalism and their ability to complete complex HV works with minimal impact on the island’s fragile environment.
Demonstrating Capability Where It Matters Most
The Fidra Island project stands as a testament to the team’s capability to execute complex HV jointing works in some of the UK’s most remote and environmentally sensitive locations. It showcases not just technical skill, but a culture of safety, environmental care, and thoughtful planning.
Tackling difficult logistics under tight environmental constraints is never easy, but on Fidra Island, our teams proved that with the right expertise and commitment, even the most challenging locations can host successful, safe, and sustainable infrastructure upgrades.
IES is delighted to announce that we have been successfully appointed to the Cadent Delivery Framework, under Lot 3 – Multi‑Discipline Complex Capital Delivery Projects and Programmes.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for our business.
The Lot 3 award covers the delivery of complex capital projects supporting Cadent throughout the RIIO‑GD3 period, with the Framework running until 31 March 2031, and with the possibility of two additional one‑year extensions.
Securing a place on this Framework reflects both the strength of our technical capability and the trusted relationship we have built with Cadent through our existing portfolio of works. It also represents a major step forward in our long‑term growth strategy, reinforcing our position in the UK gas infrastructure sector and enabling us to expand our contribution to critical network investment programmes.
“This success is a testament to the hard work, expertise, and commitment of our teams across the business. We look forward to working collaboratively with Cadent and our partners to deliver high‑quality, safe, and efficient outcomes across the complex projects portfolio.”
David Rodwell – IES Director of Gas
A significant achievement. A strategic step forward, and a proud moment for IES.
This Christmas, we joined forces with Salford Step Into Action to make sure no child wakes up to an empty tree. Through the Giving Tree initiative, colleagues at IES came together to donate gifts for local children who might otherwise go without.
The response was incredible, with so many presents bought that we had to ask for more tags! Thanks to the generosity of our team, hundreds of pounds worth of gifts have been collected, ensuring every child receives something special this festive season.
Breandan Flynn, Executive Chair said:
“I’m so pleased with the incredible response from our colleagues. This has been a great success — we even had to ask for more tags! It’s fantastic that we could help, and I hope the children are delighted with their gifts. We look forward to doing more Giving Trees in the future.”
Some of our colleagues will meet the children and see first hand the joy these gifts bring.
Sam Healey who attended the event in Manchester said: “It was amazing to see the impact of everyone’s generosity. Meeting the children and seeing their excitement reminded us why initiatives like the Giving Tree matter so much. It’s a privilege to be part of something that brings real joy to families in our community.”
Every gift matters. Every smile counts. Together, we’ve made a real difference.
Our growth depends on having the right people in the right roles. To support this, we’re looking at a range of resourcing options to help talented individuals build rewarding careers.
As part of our wider ESG strategy and commitment to inclusion, we’re focused on creating opportunities that enable everyone to reach their full potential—especially those who may have faced barriers to employment in the past.
Today marks the beginning of an important journey as we collaborate with Lance Harris, Senior National Employment Manager, to explore how we can provide employment opportunities for individuals ready to rebuild their lives and careers.
With over 14 million people in the UK living with a past conviction, inclusive employment practices are more than socially responsible—they are essential to unlocking untapped potential. By embracing these practices, we can help talented individuals contribute meaningfully to society while strengthening our workforce.
Through our ESG Commitments and our focus on inclusivity, we are committed to finding responsible, impactful ways to make a difference. Second-chance employment is not just about giving opportunities—it’s about creating a culture where growth is shared, and success is accessible to all.
Because true growth happens when everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.
It’s been 18 months since Cameron Duignan began his placement year as part of his university studies.
At its core, this experience with IES has been about gaining real-world industry insight and developing professional skills beyond the classroom. We caught up with Cameron to hear more about his journey so far and how the placement has shaped his perspective on working life and his future goals.
Working Towards a Business & Marketing Degree
Cameron is currently in his final year studying Business and Marketing at Northumbria University in Newcastle, having spent his placement year with IES in a business development role. Whilst the title suggests a specific focus, Cameron has embraced opportunities to work across a variety of projects, gaining a broad understanding of the utilities industry.
“While my role is technically in business development, I’ve had the chance to get involved in a wide range of projects across the company. That variety has been one of the most valuable parts of the placement as I’ve not been restricted to one area.”
Motivated by a strong belief in the value of real-world experience, Cameron saw the placement year as a crucial step in bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application. With a particular interest in exploring new industries, Cameron was drawn to the utilities sector, a field he hadn’t previously considered.
“I’ve always felt that hands-on learning is more important than anything. You can only get so much from lectures and being in a real business environment teaches you things you’d never pick up in a classroom.”
“My goal for my placement is that I wanted work in an industry completely new to me, and IES have really opened my eyes. I got to attend the Northumbrian Water Innovation Festival as an exhibitor, which was a huge highlight as well as visiting some of our business partners in Germany.”
The experience has opened Cameron to the potential of a career in utilities, especially after learning about the industry’s resilience and long-term job security.
Reflecting on the journey, Cameron says, “If you don’t plan on doing a placement year or a year abroad, you’re robbing yourself of an experience that’ll last a lifetime.”
Describe your experience of working at IES
“My first role during my placement was in the business development part of IES, where I learnt a lot about the initial stages of bidding / tendering on opportunities that our clients publish. Since then, my role has been ever changing, giving me the best possible opportunity to show off my skills and see what I work best with.”
“Having an early start and set working times, helped me put together a solid routine meaning I’m always busy but not overwhelmed.”
Like many students, Cameron had concerns about what a placement year might involve “Based on some other people’s experience on placement, I was scared I was going to be making cups of tea for the bosses for a year but thankfully that hasn’t happened, instead I’ve been able to learn more about the utilities industry that I expected. Turns out it’s so much more than just pipes in the ground or cables above your head, there is so much more that goes into keeping people connected than I ever appreciated.”
IES Utilities Group are currently looking for highly motivated individuals to join our upcoming future careers pathway. If you or someone you know could be interested.
Check out our careers page at https://www.careers-page.com/ies-utilities-group-ltd to see our latest opportunities.
On Scotland’s northeast coast, the St Fergus Gas Terminal provides access to gas from the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) and Norway, which it feeds into the gas National Transmission System (NTS), regularly supplying between 25% and 50% of the country’s natural gas.
Behind the scenes, IES Utilities is helping ensure this site continues to operate safely and reliably for decades to come.
Our teams are delivering specialist coating works to safeguard critical pipework and structures against corrosion. Working under strict COMAH and HSE standards, every task is carried out with safety, precision, and environmental care in mind.
From full PPE and air-fed helmets to sealed scaffolded habitats that prevent contamination, our 25-strong specialist workforce combines technical expertise with a safety-first culture to protect both people and infrastructure.
Here’s a closer look at how IES delivers safety and quality, every step of the way.
Corrosion is one of the biggest threats to gas infrastructure. Left unchecked, it can compromise both safety and performance. By carefully blasting away old coatings and applying advanced protective finishes, our work is extending the lifespan of vital equipment, reducing risk, and helping ensure uninterrupted supply for the UK.
To do this, we use cutting-edge techniques. Abrasive blasting with garnet removes every trace of rust and old paint, while sealed scaffolded habitats prevent contamination and protect both the environment and the workforce. State-of-the-art airless spray systems apply durable coatings that can withstand Scotland’s notoriously harsh weather.
At St Fergus, IES has a dedicated team of 25 trained specialists, supported by a Project Manager, Construction Manager, and expert safety and planning staff.
From scaffolders and blasters to permit holders and safety officers, everyone is part of a tightly coordinated operation where precision and discipline are essential. Workers undergo rigorous training in confined spaces, working at height, and IES’s own in-house safety programmes to ensure that every task is carried out without compromise.
Before setting foot on site, every member of the IES team must complete a COMAH (Control of Major Accident Hazards) induction – a critical requirement for working in such a high-hazard environment. Once inducted, workers wear a full suite of personal protective equipment (PPE), including:
This equipment isn’t just precautionary; it’s lifesaving in an environment where flammable gas and high-pressure systems are part of everyday operations.
Some tasks come with additional risks that require specialist precautions.
Every member of the team is Confined Spaces and Working at Height trained, ensuring that no task is undertaken without the skills and knowledge to do it safely.
In northeast Scotland, the weather isn’t just a talking point, it creates challenges every day. Paint application is highly sensitive to temperature, so this needs to be managed to meet the right paint specifications for the job. In the cold, it has to be warmed up for the team to be able to apply it properly, while in the rare Scottish heat, it can become too thin and runny, so more coats need to be applied.
Delivering high-quality protective coatings requires the right tools and techniques:
Before a single coat is applied, surfaces are grit-blasted with garnet, removing all traces of old paint and rust. An independent inspector then checks the steel surface to ensure it meets the exact profile required for the paint to properly adhere. Only when this inspection is passed, can painting begin.
For IES, safety extends beyond people to the wider environment. All blasting and painting takes place inside sealed scaffolded habitats, ensuring that no dust, debris, or fumes escape into the surrounding area.
The blasting medium, garnet, is a natural mineral. However, once mixed with old paint and coatings, it becomes classified as hazardous waste. IES ensures that all used material is safely collected and disposed of according to strict environmental regulations.
This approach means energy infrastructure can be maintained without compromising the natural landscape around St Fergus.
While the world moves towards low-carbon alternatives, natural gas continues to play a vital role in the UK’s energy security — and St Fergus is set to remain central to that effort. With the potential to evolve into a hub for carbon capture, hydrogen transport, or other future technologies, the site is as much about tomorrow as it is about today.
IES’s Head of Gas, with more than 40 years’ experience in the sector, believes the future is bright: “I believe natural gas will be as important in 20 years as it is today. With projects like this, we’re not just maintaining St Fergus — we’re preparing it to play a key role in the UK’s low-carbon transition.”
At St Fergus, IES isn’t just repainting pipes — it’s helping to safeguard the UK’s energy future. Through expertise, innovation, and an unwavering focus on safety, the IES team is ensuring that this facility remains ready to power the nation for decades to come.
We’re proud to announce that our International Resource Programme has been named a finalist for the Attraction, Recruitment Campaign or Initiative of the Year at the Energy & Utility Skills Awards 2025, sponsored by National Grid.
Whilst we didn’t win this time, this recognition celebrates the innovative work our team has done to address workforce challenges across the energy and utilities sector. Through the International Resource Programme, we’ve built a forward-thinking approach to attracting global talent, bridging skills gaps, and creating inclusive opportunities that support the sector’s long-term sustainability.
Being shortlisted is a testament to the dedication and impact of our people, and to our commitment to driving meaningful change in workforce development.
Thank you to Energy & Utility Skills for this honour. We’re excited to be part of a community that’s shaping the future of energy and utilities.
To talk to our project management team call 0161 791 1496
or email info@iesutilities.co.uk