IES Utility Solutions has been successfully appointed to the Scotland Gas Networks (SGN) GD3 Mechanical & Civil Multi-Site Framework, further strengthening its position as a trusted delivery partner within the UK energy and utilities sector.
The framework will support SGN in delivering civil and mechanical works across its Local Transmission and Distribution gas networks throughout Scotland and the South of England. Through this appointment, IES Utility Solutions will be eligible to tender for and deliver projects that support one of the UK’s most critical gas infrastructure networks during the RIIO-GD3 regulatory period.
James Blanchard, Gas Director at IES Utility Solutions, said:
“Securing a place on the SGN GD3 Mechanical & Civil Framework is a significant achievement for our business and reflects the strength of our people, capabilities and proven delivery track record across the utilities sector. We are proud to support SGN’s investment programme and look forward to working collaboratively to deliver safe, efficient and high-quality infrastructure projects across its network.”
The framework aligns closely with IES Utility Solutions’ core capabilities, including self-delivered civil engineering, mechanical installation, pipeline infrastructure, above-ground installations, fabrication, project management and specialist utility services.
With operations nationwide and a strong focus on safety, innovation and operational excellence, IES is well placed to support SGN’s objectives throughout the framework term.
This appointment marks another important step in IES Utility Solutions’ growth across the gas, electricity, water and multi-utility sectors, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering resilient infrastructure and supporting the UK’s evolving energy network.
We’re delighted to announce that IES Utility Solutions has won the Creativity and Innovation Award at the Northumbrian Water Group GEM Awards 2026 for introducing Comprex┬« Impulse Cleaning to the UK water sector. Recognised for its innovative approach, Comprex┬« also delivers impressive sustainability credentials, helping utilities reduce environmental impact while improving operational performance and supporting long-term ESG goals.
This award recognises the successful delivery of the UK’s first-ever deployment of Comprex┬«, introducing a proven and highly sustainable trenchless cleaning technology to UK water networks after years of successful use across Europe. As the only UK provider of Comprex┬«, IES is helping water companies adopt a safer, lower-carbon and less disruptive approach to restoring critical infrastructure.
By restoring water mains to near-new without excavation, chemicals or excessive water use, Comprex® supports a smarter approach to asset maintenance. The technology extends asset life, improves network performance and reduces the operational and environmental challenges associated with traditional cleaning methods.
Our award-winning project, delivered in partnership with Essex & Suffolk Water at Saxmundham, demonstrated the significant benefits that innovative cleaning technologies can bring to the UK water industry. The success of this first deployment has helped establish a new benchmark for sustainable, resilient asset maintenance.
“Winning this award is excellent recognition for the team and for Comprex┬«. It demonstrates the success of the project and the introduction of a proven, sustainable solution that helps water companies reduce environmental impact, supports ESG output and efficiency savings.” – Ged Shannon, COO┬á
We would like to thank the teams at Northumbrian Water Group and Essex & Suffolk Water for their collaboration and support in delivering this pioneering project.
This award marks an important milestone, and we look forward to continuing our work with Northumbrian Water Group and water companies across the UK. By combining innovative technology with practical delivery expertise, we can help customers improve network performance, extend asset life and reduce environmental impact.
Discover more about the project here. 
About the GEM Awards:
The GEM Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across Northumbrian Water Group’s supply chain, recognising partners who share its commitment to innovation, sustainability and customer service excellence. We are proud that our work has been recognised alongside organisations helping to shape the future of the UK water sector.
We┬árecently┬ácaught┬áup┬áwith┬áone of┬áour┬á33kV┬áCable┬áJointers,┬áHarry┬áBranthwaite,┬áwho┬áis┬ácurrently working┬áon┬áone┬áof┬áour┬áprojects┬áat┬áHams┬áHall┬á(BESS), to┬áfind┬áout┬áa┬ábit more┬áabout┬áwhat┬áitÔÇÖs┬álike┬áto be┬áa┬ácable jointer.┬á┬á
Over the past two years with IES, Harry has worked across the length and breadth of the UK, from the south-west coast of Scotland down to London. Travel plays a big part in the role and was one of the key factors that drew him into the industry. 
ÔÇ£This job feels like thereÔÇÖs always something new to learn or try,ÔÇØ Harry explains. ÔÇ£From┬áterminating┬ácables to testing and commissioning,┬áno two days are ever the same. Precision and teamwork are key, but┬áitÔÇÖs┬áincredibly satisfying at the end of the day.ÔÇØ┬á
With such a vast and interconnected power network, reliability is essential and that responsibility sits heavily on the quality of every installation.  
ÔÇ£The network is huge, and everyone relies on it,ÔÇØ Harry says. ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs imperative that installations and joints are done right to minimise any failures.ÔÇØ┬á
At the core of the role is an understanding that every connection matters. 
ÔÇ£Every joint and termination is a potential weak spot within the system, so itÔÇÖs our job to install it like it isnÔÇÖt there.ÔÇØ┬á
Cable jointers play a vital role in connecting energy infrastructure, linking the grid to wind farms, both onshore and offshore, as well as maintaining underground connections. As the industry continues to evolve, the demand is growing, not just for new installations but also upgrading the existing systems to install newer more reliable ones to last longer.   
At the moment, Harry is part of the team working at Hams Hall (BESS), delivering specialist 33kV cable installation, termination and testing works. 
ÔÇ£A typical day at Hams Hall ÔÇö thereÔÇÖs a lot going on,ÔÇØ he says. ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖve got a full team on site testing cables, carrying out terminations, and making sure everything is completed to a high┬ástandard.ÔÇØ┬á
The scale of the┬áproject┬áadds another level of complexity. ÔÇ£The job involves hundreds of HV terminations from skid to skid, cable pulling into the┬áswitchroom, testing and phasing before termination, and then VLF testing after installation before┬áenergisation.ÔÇØ┬á
ItÔÇÖs┬áa fast-moving environment where attention to detail is constant and critical.┬á
Precision is at the┬ácore┬áof a cable┬ájointerÔÇÖs┬áskillset,┬áand┬áconsistency is non-negotiable.┬á
ÔÇ£Every time you carry out a joint, youÔÇÖve got to double-check your work,ÔÇØ he explains. ÔÇ£Make sure nothing has been missed and that all your measurements are exactly right.ÔÇØ┬á
Accuracy┬áis one of the most critical factors in ensuring reliability. ÔÇ£All your measurements┬áhave to┬áalign with the manufacturerÔÇÖs instructions and design. If┬átheyÔÇÖre┬áwrong, the layers┬áwonÔÇÖt┬áline up properly,┬áand that can massively┬áimpact┬áthe termination.ÔÇØ┬á
Different cable types also demand different approaches. ÔÇ£With XLPE,┬áitÔÇÖs┬áall about cleanliness and accuracy ÔÇö┬áitÔÇÖs┬áa modern plastic cable. But with older PILC cables, your┬ámain focus┬áis keeping moisture out. If water gets into that type of cable, it can cause┬áserious damage.ÔÇØ┬á
On large or complex projects,┬ámaintaining┬áconsistency becomes even more challenging. ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs harder than people think,ÔÇØ Harry admits. ÔÇ£ThatÔÇÖs why itÔÇÖs important to have your team around you checking over your work ÔÇö making sure everything meets the standards and manufacturerÔÇÖs instructions.ÔÇØ┬á
Moving across the different voltages there are different challenges and complexities that come with each of them.   
ÔÇ£HV work is both physical and technical,ÔÇØ he explains. ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖre┬áworking with large cables ÔÇö sometimes up to 800sqmm ÔÇö bending them into tight spaces. It can be demanding.ÔÇØ┬á
But EHV introduces an entirely new level of precision. 
ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs┬áa much longer and more detailed process, with absolutely no room for errors. It takes a lot of time, dedication, and focus.ÔÇØ┬á
The working environment itself also becomes more controlled. 
ÔÇ£With EHV, you need a much larger, cleaner workspace where nothing can interfere with the process.┬áItÔÇÖs┬álike you┬ácanÔÇÖt┬átake your eyes off the cable.ÔÇØ┬á
Even the simplest tasks require more attention. 
ÔÇ£There feels like an extra step in everything you do compared to lower voltages and the level of accuracy needed is on another level.ÔÇØ┬á
While the technical skills are critical, Harry is quick to point out the personal qualities that make the biggest difference on site. 
ÔÇ£One thing I didnÔÇÖt expect when I started was how much my communication skills would develop,ÔÇØ he says. ÔÇ£YouÔÇÖve got to be clear and vocal so everyoneÔÇÖs on the same page ÔÇö that awareness across the team is crucial.ÔÇØ┬á
For those considering a career as a cable jointer, the role requires a mix of mindset and practical skill. 
ÔÇ£A lot of patience and precision is needed, and you need belief in what youÔÇÖre doing because it can get very technical,ÔÇØ Harry explains. ÔÇ£But more than anything, itÔÇÖs about teamwork.ÔÇØ┬á
ÔÇ£This job is never something you do on your own. Being able to communicate and work closely with the people around you┬áis┬ákey.ÔÇØ┬á
IES Utilities has helped support a local community initiative in Ellon, Scotland, by donating paint and decorating materials to a volunteering project led by National Gas.
The project, organised by the team at National GasÔÇÖ St Fergus Terminal, brought together volunteers to redecorate a residential home operated by the charity Cornerstone, which supports adults with additional needs. The property is home to seven residents, and the work aimed to create a brighter, more comfortable and welcoming living environment.
IES stepped in to provide a range of essential materials at short notice, including paint, brushes, rollers and protective equipment. These supplies enabled volunteers to carry out key improvements to the home, including painting internal rooms and external areas.
Bernard Donovan, IES Project Manager, coordinated the donation, ensuring the materials were ready in time for the volunteering days in June.
The volunteering initiative formed part of National GasÔÇÖ wider community and ESG activities, demonstrating how collaboration between organisations can deliver meaningful local impact.
While modest in scale, the contribution highlights IES UtilitiesÔÇÖ ongoing commitment to supporting clients and communities, helping to deliver positive change where it is needed most.
IES Utility Solutions is delighted to announce its successful appointment by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution to deliver upgrades to its overhead line networks across all distribution voltages in the Aberdeenshire part of its north of Scotland network area.
This latest contract award further strengthens the ongoing partnership between IES Utility Solutions and SSEN Distribution, reinforcing a shared commitment to delivering resilient, high-quality, and reliable electricity infrastructure across the north of Scotland.
The scope of the contract includes the construction, refurbishment, and maintenance of overhead line distribution infrastructure. This will further improve the reliability and resilience of SSENÔÇÖs network, while also increasing its capacity. This is crucial as more people and businesses adopt low-carbon technologies like heat pumps, solar panels and EV chargers, to help cut their carbon emissions and monthly energy bills. The physical upgrading of the overhead network will also make it more robust in the face of ScotlandÔÇÖs increasingly-volatile climate.
Conor OÔÇÖNeill, Power Director at IES Utility Solutions, commented: ÔÇ£We are thrilled to continue our work with SSEN Distribution and further build our relationship together. This opportunity reflects our teamÔÇÖs strong work ethic and dedication to delivering high-quality, reliable connections. WeÔÇÖre excited to work alongside SSENÔÇÖs team to support the continued strengthening and resilience of its north of Scotland network.ÔÇØ
IES Utility Solutions brings extensive experience in delivering complex overhead line projects, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This award highlights the companyÔÇÖs continued growth within the utilities sector and its capability to support major network operators in delivering critical infrastructure.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution is an electricity Distribution Network Operator which is part of the FTSE-100 energy company, SSE. It serves 4 million customers across the diverse communities of central southern England and the north of Scotland.
It provides millions of homes and businesses with a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and is at the forefront of delivering the decarbonised electricity system of the future, by connecting new low-carbon technologies to the network. Through this, SSEN Distribution is helping support sustainable economic growth for decades to come.
From remote coastlines to cutting-edge offshore substations, Brendan McNallyÔÇÖs career has taken him far beyond what he first imagined when studying civil engineering at Salford University. Now Brendan is Operations Director for UK and Europe at IES Utility Solutions. Brendan plays a pivotal role in delivering high-voltage (HV) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) projects mainly working across HV offshore projects on sites in Scotland, Holland and Ireland.
ÔÇ£I didnÔÇÖt always know IÔÇÖd end up in the power industry,ÔÇØ Brendan admits. ÔÇ£I actually wanted to be a firefighter. But I found my way into engineering, and what really hooked me was the variety. You get to see the world and be part of something meaningful.ÔÇØ
We caught up with Brendan to find out a little bit more about his role and some of his personal highlights over the years.
BrendanÔÇÖs work is anything but routine. His role spans the full lifecycle of HV projects, from being involved in the planning and pricing through to the installation, testing and delivery. ÔÇ£Every aspect of the job comes through you at some point,ÔÇØ he explains. ÔÇ£Programming, jointing, purchasing ÔÇö start to finish.ÔÇØ
On offshore projects, the day begins early and runs long. Crew transfer vessels (CTVs), helicopters, and jack-up vessels are all part of the commute.
ÔÇ£A typical day is a 12-hour shift ÔÇö 7am to 7pm, or nights,ÔÇØ he says. ÔÇ£You might be heading out by boat or helicopter to an offshore substation platform or turbine. Every day is different depending on where youÔÇÖre working.ÔÇØ
Despite the technical intensity of the role, itÔÇÖs the lifestyle that can be one of the toughest challenges the teams face.
ÔÇ£The hardest part is being away from home and the long hours. You miss events, plans ÔÇö things change quickly, and you have to adapt.ÔÇØ
Still, Brendan comes prepared to everyday. ÔÇ£My heated gilet is a must-have on site, itÔÇÖs the best thing ever,ÔÇØ he laughs.
Working on HV and EHV systems demands absolute accuracy and technical discipline ÔÇö something Brendan thrives on.
ÔÇ£If I had to describe the job in three words: precise, demanding, and interesting.ÔÇØ
Much of that precision comes down to the tools and technology used in the field. One standout piece of equipment has transformed how his teams operate:
ÔÇ£We use a Unipower peeling tool. It connects to a drill and strips the core insulation layer on XLPE cable. What used to be done by hand, now takes a fraction of the time ÔÇö itÔÇÖs a real game changer.ÔÇØ
Other innovations have helped reduce the physical strain of the job.
ÔÇ£Electric crimpers and hydraulic presses take a lot of the manual effort out of jointing. That makes a big difference when youÔÇÖre working long hours.ÔÇØ
Digital tools have also reshaped the way teams collaborate offshore and across regions, making communication much easier. Sharing data, updates and test results in real-time.
Among the many projects Brendan has delivered, one recent highlight stands out:
ÔÇ£The RedmossÔÇôClayhills 132kV city cable project has been a big one ÔÇö 18 double circuit joint bays, fibre splicing, four sets of terminations. WeÔÇÖre just coming into the final stage now, and itÔÇÖs been a great achievement.ÔÇØ
Brendan has worked in some of the most unusual and challenging environments in the world ÔÇö including Sakhalin Island in Russia.
ÔÇ£That was probably the most remote place IÔÇÖve ever worked. It took three days to get there from the UK. We were jointing cables for a gas processing plant, miles from anywhere.ÔÇØ
Closer to home, he enjoys large-scale collaborative projects, especially those involving offshore infrastructure.
ÔÇ£Working in Hoboken, Belgium, installing MV and HV cables on offshore platforms was a great experience. Big teams, complex builds ÔÇö thatÔÇÖs when the job really comes together.ÔÇØ
His favourite projects? The most demanding ones. ÔÇ£I prefer working on the EHV projects ÔÇö 132kV and 220kV. They require more precision and attention to detail. ThatÔÇÖs what makes them interesting.ÔÇØ
Working Offshore vs OnshoreConditions offshore and onshore bring very different challenges. ÔÇ£Offshore, the weather can turn quickly, especially if youÔÇÖre out on the OSS cable deck,ÔÇØ Brendan says. ÔÇ£But a lot of the time, youÔÇÖre working inside turbines or switch rooms where itÔÇÖs warm and controlled.ÔÇØ
However, Onshore wind farms can be tougher in many ways. ÔÇ£They can be cold, wet, exposed conditions. Offshore can actually be easier depending on where youÔÇÖre stationed.ÔÇØ
They say that every day is a school day and thatÔÇÖs something that Brendan still firmly believes in. ÔÇ£IÔÇÖve learnt that youÔÇÖre always learning. Despite all the years of experience, listening to your colleaguesÔÇÖ ideas and suggestions always have a positive outcome for the job.ÔÇØ That mindset has shaped his approach to leadership and teamwork, where collaboration is critical on complex HV installations.
For Brendan, the future of the industry is one of rapid transformation ÔÇö and opportunity.
ÔÇ£What excites me most is the pace of change,ÔÇØ he says. ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖre seeing huge advancements in renewables ÔÇö wind, solar, tidal ÔÇö making energy cleaner and more accessible.ÔÇØ
He points to several key developments that will define the sector in years to come:
ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs all moving in the right direction. The work weÔÇÖre doing now is laying the foundations for a much more sustainable energy system.ÔÇØ
BrendanÔÇÖs career has been shaped by simple but powerful principles.
ÔÇ£The best advice IÔÇÖve ever had is: you cannot rush perfection. That applies to everything we do in this industry.ÔÇØ
For those considering a career in engineering, his message is clear:
ÔÇ£Work somewhere you feel happy and valued ÔÇö you wonÔÇÖt go wrong.ÔÇØ
From remote islands to offshore wind farms, Brendan McNally is helping build the infrastructure powering the energy transition. His story highlights not just the technical expertise behind high-voltage engineering, but the people, dedication, and innovation driving the industry forward.
Our engineers and linespeople on the ground are made stronger by our dedicated training managers. Their experience, support and guidance help shape our workforce, building their confidence to carry out their day-to-day roles. Based at our training school in Manchester, our Trainers are ready to travel across the country to wherever the business needs them.
We caught up with Andy Spence, Overhead Training Manager at IES Utilities, to learn more about his journey into the industry, his experience as a DNO manager, and the role he plays in developing the next generation of OHL operatives.
After leaving school at 16, Andy wasnÔÇÖt sure what career path to take and like many, he had never even heard of the role of a linesman. That changed when he joined a Youth Training Apprenticeship Scheme, where he was first introduced to working on overhead lines.
Andy progressed to become a fully authorised linesman, gaining experience across LV and HV networks and working on response jobs in high-pressure situations where safety and quick decision-making are critical.
In 2010, he moved into training, spending nearly 14 years as a Distribution Overhead Line Trainer. Where he supported both new starters and experienced operatives, helping them build strong foundations and develop a clear understanding of what consistent, high-quality training looks like.
Then in September 2024, Andy joined IES Utilities as an Overhead Training Manager. Within just his second week, he played a key role in a major recruitment drive in Africa. Where over the course of six months and multiple trips, the team successfully recruited more than 100 linesmen, an unprecedented achievement at that scale.
ÔÇ£What stood out most wasnÔÇÖt just the numbers, but the impact; seeing individuals given opportunities to improve their lives and support their families is something that stays with you.ÔÇØ
Training, Development and Raising StandardsToday, Andy focuses on delivering in-house overhead line training programmes tailored to operational needs, while also working to improve procedures and equipment to enhance efficiency and safety.
He plays a key role in ensuring the competency of the workforce, making sure all linesmen and women are trained to the highest standards. This includes delivering both practical and theoretical training, as well as refresher courses for experienced operatives.
Because all training is carried out in-house, it can be shaped around real working environments, particularly live working and operating at height.
ÔÇ£No two days are the same. A typical day could involve delivering classroom-based training followed by practical sessions on site, ensuring individuals are ready for real working conditions.ÔÇØ
A large part of AndyÔÇÖs role is also about being accessible; supporting people, answering questions, and helping to build confidence across the workforce.
ÔÇ£I support both new starters and experienced operatives, ensuring consistency across the workforce. I also work closely with project managers and Health & Safety teams, developing training materials and helping improve understanding of the hazards associated with overhead line work.ÔÇØ
When it comes to helping new employees transition into the business, Andy takes a structured but supportive approach. New starters are guided through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on training, ensuring they understand both the technical and safety aspects of the role from day one and build confidence early on.
ÔÇ£My approach is open and supportive – my door is always open. I encourage people to ask questions and seek help when needed.ÔÇØ
One of AndyÔÇÖs most rewarding experiences comes from supporting trainees through challenging moments.
ÔÇ£There have been times where trainees have had a wobble and felt they couldnÔÇÖt carry on. IÔÇÖve climbed the overhead to speak with them, helping them settle and rebuild their confidence. Those momentsÔÇöhelping someone get through that point and believe in themselvesÔÇöare more rewarding than anything that might come later in their career.ÔÇØ
After nearly 38 years in the industry, stepping into a DNO training manager role felt like a natural progression.
ÔÇ£Moving into training has allowed me to pass on my knowledge and support others in developing their own careers.ÔÇØ
His hands-on experience has shaped his approach to leadership and training, allowing him to relate to the challenges faced at every stage of the job.
ÔÇ£Having worked my way up through the industry gives me a clear understanding of what people face. I focus on practical, real-world training and being approachable – it builds trust and encourages open communication. I believe in leading by example, maintaining high standards, and creating a strong safety culture.ÔÇØ
Strong training and competency are essential in the industry. While the role is often perceived as dangerous, Andy emphasises that with the right training, procedures, and mindset, it becomes a highly controlled and safe environment.
ÔÇ£We work live and at height every day, so getting the training right from the start is critical. High standards ensure consistency, safety and confidence across the workforce.ÔÇØ
One of the biggest challenges in his role is keeping pace with growing industry demand.
As new contracts are secured, the need for skilled, competent operatives increasesÔÇöplacing even greater emphasis on effective training programmes and workforce development.
Looking ahead, Andy is passionate about encouraging new talent into the overhead lines industry.
He believes that success in the role comes down to a combination of mindset, resilience and accountability.
Those starting out need a strong work ethic, self-motivation and a safety-first approach. They must also be comfortable working at height and in challenging weather conditions, while understanding their own limits and having the confidence to speak up if something doesnÔÇÖt feel right.
ÔÇ£If heights and tough conditions donÔÇÖt faze you, then go for it. ItÔÇÖs a challenging role, but the rewards are there. ItÔÇÖs taken me all over the world, introduced me to great peopleÔÇöand even after nearly 38 years, I still enjoy coming to work.ÔÇØ
At IES Utility Solutions, weÔÇÖre proud to support grassroots sport and invest in local talent, and last weekend, that commitment was clear to see as Timperley Amateur Boxing Club (TABC) delivered an outstanding performance at the prestigious Manchester Box Cup.
As proud sponsors of the club, it was fantastic to see the team arrive looking sharp and unified in their new kit, representing both TABC and IES Utility Solutions on a respected regional stage.
The club entered five boxers into the competition and came away with an impressive two Box Cup champions. Rocky Smith and Luke Upton both produced exceptional performances to secure gold, showcasing the dedication and talent within the squad.
They were joined by Sonny Davidson, Kenzie Waite and Ali Ahamady, who all represented the club with determination and pride, contributing to a highly successful weekend overall.
Behind the scenes, coaches Mark Davidson, Clark Smith and Ray Davidson provided invaluable guidance and support, helping drive the teamÔÇÖs strong performances across the event.
WeÔÇÖre also delighted to celebrate further success from the club, with Savannah Kiely recently crowned England Boxing National Schoolgirls Champion, making her officially number one in the country for her age and weight category. Coach Tony Kiely was ever present by his daughterÔÇÖs side throughout her preparation for the championship and proudly in her corner on the day, playing a key role in her success.
ÔÇ£As a long-time supporter of Timperley ABC, itÔÇÖs incredibly rewarding to see the club continue to go from strength to strength. The dedication shown by the boxers, coaches and everyone involved is truly inspiring. At IES Utility Solutions, we believe in supporting our local communities and creating opportunities for young people to thrive. Seeing these athletes succeed on such a respected stage, and knowing weÔÇÖve played a small part in that journey, makes us very proud.ÔÇØ Breandan Flynn, CEO
At IES Utility Solutions, we believe in backing ambition, discipline and community spirit. ItÔÇÖs inspiring to see these values reflected in Timperley ABC, and weÔÇÖre proud to play a part in their ongoing success.
This week, our teams┬áwill be at the NEC, Birmingham, joining over 4,000 industry professionals for one of the biggest events in the utilities calendar.┬áWeÔÇÖll┬ábe there alongside our trusted partner Hydraulic Analysis Group Limited (HAL),┬áshowcasing┬áhow collaboration is helping to deliver smarter, more resilient networks.
ƒôì┬áFind us on Stand K40
ƒôì Opposite Ofwat Innovation┬áand┬áKorec┬áGroup
ƒôì Next to WaterAid
ƒôìBehind the Energy Flexibility Stage
Our team will be on hand to discuss our work across the Power, Gas and Telecoms sectors, where we deliver endÔÇætoÔÇæend infrastructure solutions,┬áand┬áto┬áshowcase┬áhow┬áweÔÇÖre┬ádriving innovation and sustainability across our Water projects.
Comprex ® in Action
Come and see┬áour innovative┬áComprex┬« Impulse Cleaning solution┬áin action, with real examples and case studies from the past 18 months┬ádemonstrating┬áthe impact┬áitÔÇÖs┬áalready delivering.
WeÔÇÖll┬áwalk you through how this patented, computer-controlled, trenchless technology┬á-┬áproven across Europe and now available in the UK exclusively through us┬á-┬áis transforming network cleaning.
Comprex® offers a more sustainable approach, using up to 90% less water and reducing waste volumes by over 80%, all without the need for chemicals. At the same time, its high-performance impulse pulses (reaching up to 20 m/s) effectively remove even stubborn deposits without damaging infrastructure.
The result is a safer, smarter, low-carbon solution that delivers both environmental and operational benefits.
We┬ácan’t┬áwait to see everyone┬áthere;┬ámake sure you stop by and say hello.
Creating an environment where our colleagues can grow, develop their skills and pursue their ambitions is something weÔÇÖre incredibly proud to champion at IES Utility Solutions.
Last week marked a significant milestone for three members of our Power division ÔÇô Concila Ndlovou, Albert Jukwa and Phineas Runganga ÔÇô who successfully achieved their HV Switching (up to 22kV) and Long Stick qualifications with Scottish Power. These achievements mark an important step as they prepare for their final SAP Stage 3 assessments in the coming months.
Having joined IES in 2024 as linespeople through our South African recruitment programme, each of them has demonstrated exceptional commitment, progressing through hands-on project experience while building a deep understanding of network operations and safety standards.
We caught up with them to hear more about their journeys so far.
Concila Ndlovu
After relocating to the UK, Concila quickly adapted to the demands of a fast-paced operational environment. Starting in surveying and defect identification, she progressed through pole pinning roles before achieving her APSPHV HV Switching Authorisation.
ÔÇ£This is an accomplishment that IÔÇÖm particularly proud of,ÔÇØ she says. ÔÇ£Joining IES has been one of the most pivotal and rewarding transitions in my career.ÔÇØ
Reflecting on the journey, Concila highlighted the personal growth behind the achievement:
ÔÇ£This has been both a challenging and highly rewarding experience. ItÔÇÖs helped shape me into a resilient and disciplined SAP, with a strong focus on safety, performance and continuous improvement. Each milestone reflects not just my own development, but the strength of the team supporting me.ÔÇØ
Phineas Runganga
Phineas joined IES in late 2024, bringing valuable experience from Zimbabwe. Beginning on a pole pinning project, he quickly demonstrated his capability, catching the attention of Conor OÔÇÖNeill and the wider team.
Recognising his potential, Phineas was given the opportunity to begin SAP training ÔÇô an opportunity he was eager to take.
ÔÇ£It was an opportunity I was proud to accept,ÔÇØ he explains. ÔÇ£Since starting my training last year, IÔÇÖve been focused on building my knowledge and experience, and IÔÇÖm now preparing for my SAP authorisation assessment in June. ItÔÇÖs been a great journey of continuous learning and development.ÔÇØ
Albert Jukwa
For Albert, becoming a SAP has always been a clear goal. His journey has combined in-depth technical training with rigorous practical experience, all underpinned by a strong commitment to safety.
ÔÇ£One of the highlights for me has been working through complex switching procedures alongside experienced colleagues,ÔÇØ he says. ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs really strengthened both my understanding and my confidence.ÔÇØ
Albert also pointed to the importance of safety throughout his training:
ÔÇ£The safety auditing element has been especially valuable. It reinforced just how critical it is to follow safe systems of work. ItÔÇÖs not just about doing the job effectively, but doing it responsibly and safely every time.ÔÇØ
Across all of their journeys, a common theme stands out ÔÇô dedication, adaptability and a willingness to step outside of comfort zones to achieve meaningful progress.
Their achievements not only reflect their individual commitment, but also the culture at IES ÔÇô one that actively supports development, recognises potential and invests in the future of its people.
As they head towards their final SAP assessments, they are already demonstrating the qualities that define success in our industry: technical excellence, resilience and an unwavering focus on safety.
WeÔÇÖre incredibly proud of Concila, Phineas and Albert, and we look forward to supporting them as they take the next step in their careers.
At IES, their journeys are just the beginning ÔÇô a powerful example of whatÔÇÖs possible when ambition meets opportunity.
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