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 Gas’ 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 Gas’ wider community and ESG activities, demonstrating how collaboration between organisations can deliver meaningful local impact.
While modest in scale, the contribution highlights IES Utilities’ 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 SSEN’s 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 Scotland’s increasingly-volatile climate.
Conor O’Neill, Power Director at IES Utility Solutions, commented: “We are thrilled to continue our work with SSEN Distribution and further build our relationship together. This opportunity reflects our team’s strong work ethic and dedication to delivering high-quality, reliable connections. We’re excited to work alongside SSEN’s team to support the continued strengthening and resilience of its north of Scotland network.”
IES Utility Solutions brings extensive experience in delivering complex overhead line projects, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This award highlights the company’s 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 McNally’s 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.
“I didn’t always know I’d end up in the power industry,” Brendan admits. “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.”
We caught up with Brendan to find out a little bit more about his role and some of his personal highlights over the years.
Brendan’s 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. “Every aspect of the job comes through you at some point,” he explains. “Programming, jointing, purchasing — start to finish.”
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.
“A typical day is a 12-hour shift — 7am to 7pm, or nights,” he says. “You might be heading out by boat or helicopter to an offshore substation platform or turbine. Every day is different depending on where you’re working.”
Despite the technical intensity of the role, it’s the lifestyle that can be one of the toughest challenges the teams face.
“The hardest part is being away from home and the long hours. You miss events, plans — things change quickly, and you have to adapt.”
Still, Brendan comes prepared to everyday. “My heated gilet is a must-have on site, it’s the best thing ever,” he laughs.
Working on HV and EHV systems demands absolute accuracy and technical discipline — something Brendan thrives on.
“If I had to describe the job in three words: precise, demanding, and interesting.”
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:
“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 — it’s a real game changer.”
Other innovations have helped reduce the physical strain of the job.
“Electric crimpers and hydraulic presses take a lot of the manual effort out of jointing. That makes a big difference when you’re working long hours.”
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:
“The Redmoss–Clayhills 132kV city cable project has been a big one — 18 double circuit joint bays, fibre splicing, four sets of terminations. We’re just coming into the final stage now, and it’s been a great achievement.”
Brendan has worked in some of the most unusual and challenging environments in the world — including Sakhalin Island in Russia.
“That was probably the most remote place I’ve ever worked. It took three days to get there from the UK. We were jointing cables for a gas processing plant, miles from anywhere.”
Closer to home, he enjoys large-scale collaborative projects, especially those involving offshore infrastructure.
“Working in Hoboken, Belgium, installing MV and HV cables on offshore platforms was a great experience. Big teams, complex builds — that’s when the job really comes together.”
His favourite projects? The most demanding ones. “I prefer working on the EHV projects — 132kV and 220kV. They require more precision and attention to detail. That’s what makes them interesting.”
Working Offshore vs OnshoreConditions offshore and onshore bring very different challenges. “Offshore, the weather can turn quickly, especially if you’re out on the OSS cable deck,” Brendan says. “But a lot of the time, you’re working inside turbines or switch rooms where it’s warm and controlled.”
However, Onshore wind farms can be tougher in many ways. “They can be cold, wet, exposed conditions. Offshore can actually be easier depending on where you’re stationed.”
They say that every day is a school day and that’s something that Brendan still firmly believes in. “I’ve learnt that you’re always learning. Despite all the years of experience, listening to your colleagues’ ideas and suggestions always have a positive outcome for the job.” 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 — and opportunity.
“What excites me most is the pace of change,” he says. “We’re seeing huge advancements in renewables — wind, solar, tidal — making energy cleaner and more accessible.”
He points to several key developments that will define the sector in years to come:
“It’s all moving in the right direction. The work we’re doing now is laying the foundations for a much more sustainable energy system.”
Brendan’s career has been shaped by simple but powerful principles.
“The best advice I’ve ever had is: you cannot rush perfection. That applies to everything we do in this industry.”
For those considering a career in engineering, his message is clear:
“Work somewhere you feel happy and valued — you won’t go wrong.”
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 wasn’t 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.
“What stood out most wasn’t just the numbers, but the impact; seeing individuals given opportunities to improve their lives and support their families is something that stays with you.”
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.
“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.”
A large part of Andy’s role is also about being accessible; supporting people, answering questions, and helping to build confidence across the workforce.
“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.”
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.
“My approach is open and supportive – my door is always open. I encourage people to ask questions and seek help when needed.”
One of Andy’s most rewarding experiences comes from supporting trainees through challenging moments.
“There have been times where trainees have had a wobble and felt they couldn’t carry on. I’ve climbed the overhead to speak with them, helping them settle and rebuild their confidence. Those moments—helping someone get through that point and believe in themselves—are more rewarding than anything that might come later in their career.”
After nearly 38 years in the industry, stepping into a DNO training manager role felt like a natural progression.
“Moving into training has allowed me to pass on my knowledge and support others in developing their own careers.”
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.
“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.”
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.
“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.”
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 increases—placing 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 doesn’t feel right.
“If heights and tough conditions don’t faze you, then go for it. It’s a challenging role, but the rewards are there. It’s taken me all over the world, introduced me to great people—and even after nearly 38 years, I still enjoy coming to work.”
At IES Utility Solutions, we’re 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 team’s strong performances across the event.
We’re 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 daughter’s side throughout her preparation for the championship and proudly in her corner on the day, playing a key role in her success.
“As a long-time supporter of Timperley ABC, it’s 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 we’ve played a small part in that journey, makes us very proud.” Breandan Flynn, CEO
At IES Utility Solutions, we believe in backing ambition, discipline and community spirit. It’s inspiring to see these values reflected in Timperley ABC, and we’re proud to play a part in their ongoing success.
This week, our teams will be at the NEC, Birmingham, joining over 4,000 industry professionals for one of the biggest events in the utilities calendar. We’ll be there alongside our trusted partner Hydraulic Analysis Group Limited (HAL), showcasing how collaboration is helping to deliver smarter, more resilient networks.
📍 Find us on Stand K40
📍 Opposite Ofwat Innovation and Korec Group
📍 Next to WaterAid
📍Behind the Energy Flexibility Stage
Our team will be on hand to discuss our work across the Power, Gas and Telecoms sectors, where we deliver end‑to‑end infrastructure solutions, and to showcase how we’re driving innovation and sustainability across our Water projects.
Comprex ® in Action
Come and see our innovative Comprex® Impulse Cleaning solution in action, with real examples and case studies from the past 18 months demonstrating the impact it’s already delivering.
We’ll walk you through how this patented, computer-controlled, trenchless technology – proven across Europe and now available in the UK exclusively through us – is 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 can’t wait to see everyone there; make sure you stop by and say hello.
Creating an environment where our colleagues can grow, develop their skills and pursue their ambitions is something we’re incredibly proud to champion at IES Utility Solutions.
Last week marked a significant milestone for three members of our Power division – Concila Ndlovou, Albert Jukwa and Phineas Runganga – 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.
“This is an accomplishment that I’m particularly proud of,” she says. “Joining IES has been one of the most pivotal and rewarding transitions in my career.”
Reflecting on the journey, Concila highlighted the personal growth behind the achievement:
“This has been both a challenging and highly rewarding experience. It’s 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.”
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 O’Neill and the wider team.
Recognising his potential, Phineas was given the opportunity to begin SAP training – an opportunity he was eager to take.
“It was an opportunity I was proud to accept,” he explains. “Since starting my training last year, I’ve been focused on building my knowledge and experience, and I’m now preparing for my SAP authorisation assessment in June. It’s been a great journey of continuous learning and development.”
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.
“One of the highlights for me has been working through complex switching procedures alongside experienced colleagues,” he says. “It’s really strengthened both my understanding and my confidence.”
Albert also pointed to the importance of safety throughout his training:
“The safety auditing element has been especially valuable. It reinforced just how critical it is to follow safe systems of work. It’s not just about doing the job effectively, but doing it responsibly and safely every time.”
Across all of their journeys, a common theme stands out – 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 – 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.
We’re 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 – a powerful example of what’s possible when ambition meets opportunity.
Last year, one of our specialist HV teams supported the Dunmanway Wind Farm project in Ireland, delivering Irish 110kV cable jointing, terminations and testing for Suir Engineering to enable completion of the ICP‑approved connection.
The project scope included installation of 110kV XLPE cable joints to UK and Irish HV standards, along with joint bay construction and cable preparation.
We delivered straight joints and cross‑bonded configurations to support the long‑distance EHV circuit design, covering all stages from sheath preparation and conductor crimping through to insulation rebuild and stress control.
Full 110kV HV testing was completed, with comprehensive ICP documentation provided to enable Suir Engineering to finalise the connection.
The project involved several notable challenges that shaped our delivery approach:
We applied a structured, quality‑driven approach to the delivery of the high‑voltage jointing works, ensuring compliance, safety and programme certainty throughout.
Despite the complexity of the route and programme, the project was delivered to the highest technical and safety standards, achieving full compliance and a defect‑free handover.
Harriet has been a key member of the IES SHEQ team for nearly 4 years, working as a SHEQ Advisor, mainly across our Gas contracts. Although based at our Head Office in Manchester, Harriet regularly travels across the UK, helping to deliver our projects safely and efficiently.
We caught up with Harriet to hear more about what it’s like to work as a SHEQ Advisor.
“My role is all about supporting project teams to plan and deliver works safely while staying compliant with our procedures and industry regulations,” Harriet explains. “Safety shouldn’t be an add-on, it needs to be built into how the project is designed and delivered.”
Managing Complex Risks in Utilities
Work in utilities brings unique challenges, often involving high-risk environments including live roads, active gas infrastructure and heavy plant operations.
These are some of the key risks that Harriet spends her time helping project teams in understanding and managing these risks on site, with some of the biggest hazards being service strikes, lifting operations, excavations and exposure to hazardous substances. Managing these effectively comes down to thorough planning, close supervision and clear communication on site.
“If something isn’t safe, the work stops. Safety has to come first, always.”
Collaboration at every stage
A large part of Harriet’s day to day role involves reviewing RAMS during the planning stage before validating them on site. Ensuring that real conditions match what’s written on paper. Working closely with project managers, engineers and operational teams to embed safety into design, planning and execution.
“I take a proactive approach, it’s really important that hazards are properly identified and that control measures are realistic and the workers on site fully understand for their own safety as well as those working around them and the public.”
“We often find that site inspections and conversations with operators often reveal additional insights. These open conversations are key as people on the ground can often spot things early that we wouldn’t have been able to predict in the planning process.”
Driving Performance Through Engagement
Harriet monitors safety performance through inspections, audits, incident reporting and weekly reviews with the wider SHEQ team. These processes help the team to identify trends and share their learnings across projects.
But beyond the systems and processes, culture plays a huge part.
“Being approachable and encouraging open conversation makes a big difference in promoting a positive safety culture. I focus on reinforcing that everyone has a role to play in maintaining a safe working environment. Recognising good practice and engaging operatives in discussions about safety helps build confidence across teams and contractors to raise any concerns.”
In her role Harriet supports consistent training for IES staff and subcontractors, from inductions and in house training to regular toolbox talks and specialist courses for high-risk activities such as lifting operations, confined spaces and service detection.
Measuring Success and Incident Prevention
Harriet and the team track a range of KPIs, including near misses, incident rates, observation reporting and corrective action completion, to build a clear picture of project safety performance.
A recent example highlights how proactive controls helped to significantly reduce the risk of underground service strikes: “To prevent and reduce the risk of service strikes, we introduced a trial of different C.A.T (Cable Avoidance Tool) models. This ensured site teams were confident and competent in using the equipment to accurately locate underground services. Enhanced training was also implemented, including EUSR Safe Digging Excavation Practices and EUSR Locate Utility Services (HSG47). Ongoing compliance is monitored through regular site audits and the review of C.A.T download data, providing assurance that the tools are being used correctly and consistently.”
Advice for Future Safety Professionals
For those starting out in health and safety, Harriet emphasises one thing above all: spend time on site.
“Understanding how work is actually carried out is essential,” she says. “Build strong relationships, ask questions and engage with the workforce. That’s how you learn, and it’s how you deliver advice that’s practical and effective.”
We look forward to hearing more from Harriet next time she’s out on site.
We’re delighted to announce that IES Utility Solutions has been shortlisted for the Water Industry Awards 2026, in the Drinking Water Initiative of the Year category for our work at Saxmundham with Northumbrian Water.
The shortlist recognises projects that demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact in the delivery of drinking water services, and our work at Saxmundham is a strong example of how focused delivery and technical expertise can make a real difference.
Our submission showcases how we worked in partnership to address critical challenges, deliver resilient solutions, and improve outcomes for communities.
Read the full case study below to learn more about the job, the approach we took, and the results we achieved.
Collaboration delivering cleaner water for Saxmundham
We are delighted to share a project the team worked with Northumbrian Water Group on using Comprex® last year in Suffolk. This project showed how innovative the Comprex® Technology is and that it is the future of trenchless cleaning methods in a more sustainable and efficient way.
Scope:
Following past attempts to clean these mains using traditional flushing cleaning methods which were unsuccessful fort this stretch of main and a full mains replacement was going to be both a costly and more environmentally damaging option. IES Utility Solutions were brought in to use Comprex® trenchless, low carbon technology to remove the heavy deposits without chemicals, excavation or customer disruption; and manage the cleaning programme, site co-ordination, system setup and environmental controls.
Challenges:
During this project the team worked within some tight operational windows to minimise customer disruption.
There were unexpected cross‑connections which complicated the isolation for the cleaning to take place with minimal disruption to customers. However, using combined expertise ensured rapid problem solving without delaying the programme.
Approach:
Delivery relied on close collaboration between NWG, IES Utility Solutions and our specialist Comprex® team. Joint planning established:
Outcomes:
The result, all 9km of mains were safely cleaned across six nights with the turbidity reduces to below 2.5NU. There were no customer interruptions during the delivery, and supply resilience was maintained throughout.
Discolouration risks and customer contacts were dramatically reduced, restoring confidence for more than 15,000 customers.
Client Benefits:
The initiative delivered several measurable financial, customer, operational and environmental benefits far beyond initial expectations.
Environmental and carbon benefits:
Financial and operational benefits:
Overall, the project delivered high-quality water, lower operational costs, reduced carbon footprint and improved system resilience — reinforcing the value of innovative, partnership-led solutions in the water industry.
To talk to our project management team:
Call
Email