This World Water Day, weÔÇÖre shining a spotlight on the innovative work within our Water Division at IES Utilities Solutions. Work that helps shape the future of clean, reliable water supply in the UK.
With increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact, improve water quality, maintain ageing assets, and deliver better customer experiences, the water sector is facing some of its most significant challenges to date. Over the past year weÔÇÖve successfully been tackling these head-on by introducing the use of Comprex┬« Impulse Cleaning Technology; a proven, trenchless pipe-cleaning solution widely used across Europe and now being deployed in the UK with excellent results.
Traditional pipe-cleaning methods such as scraping or highÔÇævolume flushing can be resource-intensive, disruptive, and environmentally costly. Comprex┬« offers a modern alternative: a digitally controlled system that uses precise pulses of medicalÔÇægrade air and water to clean pipes safely, efficiently, and with minimal water use. This low-disruption, high-performance system removes sediment, biofilms, and mineral deposits from pressurised water pipes without the need for chemicals, excavation, or high-water use.
We saw this firsthand at our pilot project with Northumbrian Water at Honey Hill, Northumberland, which demonstrated the step-change potential of this technology.
During the pilot we saw:
As a result in this project, we saw a 2,000ÔÇæmetre castÔÇæiron main laid in 1922, Comprex┬« restored performance, removed biofilms and mineral deposits, and brought the pipe back into service, all without excavation, chemicals, or extended operational shutdowns.
As the water sector continues to focus on resilience, environmental protection, and customer outcomes. We will continue to work with innovations like Comprex® to help our clients move forward with confidence.
Read the full case study for Honey Hill Here: Honey Hill Water Case Study
Scope
SSE Renewables and NKT faced a critical outage at the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm in Caithness, Scotland, when one of the siteÔÇÖs two 220kV subsea export cables unexpectedly failed. The incident cut the windfarmÔÇÖs transmission capacity by 50%, placing energy supply for more than 450,000 households at risk and creating major commercial and operational exposure for the asset owners.
To restore full transmission capability as quickly as possible, the client required a repair partner capable of delivering a technically complex subsea intervention within an extremely compressed timeframe. IES Utilities Group was engaged by NKT to deliver a fully managed turnkey repair solution.
Approach
IES deployed an integrated engineering, logistics, and offshore operations strategy designed to overcome bottlenecks and accelerate the repair window. The approach focused on rapid mobilisation, advanced subsea handling technologies, and tight coordination between all stakeholders.
Key elements of the approach included:
Delivery
Mobilisation was achieved within six days, with offshore works completed just 38 days from contract signing. The repair programme combined advanced subsea technology, coordinated project governance, and efficient cable handling to drastically reduce operational downtime and ensure quality and safety standards throughout the intervention.
Outcome
Client Benefits
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 airportÔÇÖs main airÔÇæcargo hub, which is┬áa busy industrial estate with constant movements of HGVs, cargo┬átrucks┬áand service vehicles. Because so many large vehicles┬áoperate┬áin tight spaces, the area is extremely trafficÔÇæsensitive 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┬áhad┬ápresented┬áadditional┬áchallenges due to limited access windows and the presence of┬ánumerous┬áunderground services. Despite the projectÔÇÖs┬árelatively small┬áscale, we approached the preÔÇæconstruction 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 multiÔÇævoltage 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, highÔÇæintegrity cable system installation delivered smoothly on behalf of Equans, reinforcing reliability, strengthening the wider offshore programme and maintaining client confidence.
Today, weÔÇÖre 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:
ÔÇ£IÔÇÖm 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 ÔÇô 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 WomenÔÇÖs Day this week, itÔÇÖs also a great opportunity to recognise the growing contribution of women in our industry and continue encouraging more women to pursue careers in utilities.ÔÇØ
Sarah, Sandra and Gemma from our Gas Document Control & Databook team, ┬ánominated for the Excellence Award said, ÔÇ£This award is especially meaningful in an industry thatÔÇÖs traditionally maleÔÇædominated. 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.ÔÇØ
In an industry that has traditionally seen fewer women entering technical and frontline careers, weÔÇÖre 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. HereÔÇÖs what she had to say about starting her journey with us:
ÔÇ£Starting here has shown me just how much opportunity there is for women in this industry. Joining the team I didnÔÇÖt 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.ÔÇØ
Fidra, a small rocky outcrop off the East Lothian coast, is beautiful, remote, and environmentally precious. It is also┬átide 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┬árequired┬áboth technical┬áexpertise┬áand a deep respect for the islandÔÇÖs protected status ÔÇö and┬áour┬áteams were┬áready 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,┬áFidra┬árequired┬áheightened environmental discipline. The team worked with strict vigilance, employing spill kits, drip trays, controlled waste systems, and a firm ÔÇÿleave no traceÔÇÖ 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┬áestablished┬ásafe access and controlled work zones. Jointing works were carried out in line with manufacturer requirements and HV best practice┬á-┬áfrom cable preparation and sheath removal to screen management, crimping, heatÔÇæshrink application, and final terminations. All activities were overseen by SPEN Senior Authorised Personnel to ensure strict compliance with safety documentation, isolation protocols, and┬ápermit┬ácontrols. 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 heatÔÇæshrink materials and propane. PPE, COSHHÔÇæassessed materials, and clear emergency procedures were embedded in all activities.
This disciplined approach delivered the projectÔÇÖs key outcome: zero incidents, accidents, or near misses.
Protecting a Unique Island ÔÇö 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┬áclose at hand┬áat all times ÔÇö 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 teamÔÇÖs professionalism and their ability to complete complex HV works with minimal impact on the islandÔÇÖs fragile environment.
Demonstrating Capability Where It Matters Most
The┬áFidra┬áIsland project stands as a testament to┬áthe teamÔÇÖs┬ácapability to execute complex HV jointing works in some of the UKÔÇÖs most remote and environmentally sensitive locations. It┬áshowcases┬ánot 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 ÔÇô MultiÔÇæDiscipline 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 RIIOÔÇæGD3 period, with the Framework running until 31 March 2031, and with the possibility of two additional oneÔÇæyear 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 longÔÇæterm growth strategy, reinforcing our position in the UK gas infrastructure sector and enabling us to expand our contribution to critical network investment programmes.
ÔÇ£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 highÔÇæquality, safe, and efficient outcomes across the complex projects portfolio.ÔÇØ
David Rodwell ÔÇô 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:
“IÔÇÖm so pleased with the incredible response from our colleagues. This has been a great success ÔÇö we even had to ask for more tags! ItÔÇÖs 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: ÔÇ£It was amazing to see the impact of everyoneÔÇÖs generosity. Meeting the children and seeing their excitement reminded us why initiatives like the Giving Tree matter so much. ItÔÇÖs a privilege to be part of something that brings real joy to families in our community.ÔÇØ
Every gift matters. Every smile counts. Together, weÔÇÖve made a real difference.
Our growth depends on having the right people in the right roles. To support this, weÔÇÖre 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, weÔÇÖre focused on creating opportunities that enable everyone to reach their full potentialÔÇöespecially 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 responsibleÔÇöthey 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 opportunitiesÔÇöitÔÇÖs 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.
ItÔÇÖs 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.
ÔÇ£While my role is technically in business development, IÔÇÖve 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 IÔÇÖve not been restricted to one area.ÔÇØ
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 hadnÔÇÖt previously considered.
ÔÇ£IÔÇÖve 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 youÔÇÖd never pick up in a classroom.ÔÇØ
ÔÇ£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.ÔÇØ
The experience has opened Cameron to the potential of a career in utilities, especially after learning about the industryÔÇÖs resilience and long-term job security.
Reflecting on the journey, Cameron says, ÔÇ£If you donÔÇÖt plan on doing a placement year or a year abroad, youÔÇÖre robbing yourself of an experience thatÔÇÖll last a lifetime.ÔÇØ
Describe your experience of working at IES
ÔÇ£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.ÔÇØ
ÔÇ£Having an early start and set working times, helped me put together a solid routine meaning IÔÇÖm always busy but not overwhelmed.ÔÇØ
Like many students, Cameron had concerns about what a placement year might involve ÔÇ£Based on some other peopleÔÇÖs experience on placement, I was scared I was going to be making cups of tea for the bosses for a year but thankfully that hasnÔÇÖt happened, instead IÔÇÖve been able to learn more about the utilities industry that I expected. Turns out itÔÇÖs 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.ÔÇØ
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.
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