New electricity connections is not always an easy task. Understanding the different options and what’s best for you isn’t always as straightforward as it may sound. You may have come across the terms “Distribution Network Operator” (DNO) or “Independent Connection Provider” (ICP). However, what is the difference between a Distribution Network Operator and an Independent Connection Provider?
What is a Distribution Network Operator?
To give you a clear understanding on how they differin simple terms, a Distribution Network Operator (DNO) distributes electricity from the national grid to your home or business. They are responsible for the network of towers, transformers, poles, caves and meters that deliver power to your home or premises. In Great Britain, there are 14 different district networks or DNO regions. There are also four different sectors involved in keeping electricity running in the country. These include:
- Generation: Power plant ownership and operation
- Transmissions: Companies who operate high voltage transmissions networks
- Distribution: Businesses who undertake local distribution via towers, cables and meters
- Suppliers: Electricity sellers/ shippers
We can all relate to that frustration when a power cut occurs; DNO’s are the organisation who take action, your Distribution Network Provider can be found through your postcode.
The Utilities Act 2000 prevents DNO’s from supplying electricity; this is undertaken by electricity supply companies, chosen by the end consumer.
What is an Independent Connection Provider? (ICP)
An Independent Connection Provider (ICP) is an accredited company that carries out work on the electricity network on behalf of their clients. We are a company who can build electricity networks to the specification and quality required to be adopted by either a Distribution Network Operator or an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO). When carrying out contestable works for either type of client, an Independent Connection Provider can complete a variety of works. This includes the installation of cables (both high (HV) and low-voltage (LV), substation installation, cable jointing and network connections.
There are many reasons that our clients use Independent Connection Providers. This is usually due to our fast delivery, greater flexibility and the option of providers. We work closely with the DNO’s to ensure a seamless delivery. Networks that are built or operated by ICP’s will be adopted by either a Distribution Network Operator or an IDNO. If a company is an ICP that also allows them to build electricity networks; which are ultimately owned by either DNO’s or IDNO’s.
What is an Independent Distribution Network Operator? (IDNO)
In order to open up competition in the electricity distribution connections market and to keep bills low for the consumer, Ofgem now licenses Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNO’s).
IDNO’s operate and maintain local electricity distribution networks throughout the UK. IDNO’s connect to the local distribution network or to the transmission network to serve new residential and commercial developments. IDNO’s are responsible for managing and operating their local networks, including all future maintenance and fault repairs.
IDNO’s have the same obligations and performance standards as DNO’s.
Clients who are connected to an IDNO network will be entitled to exactly the same level of service and guaranteed performance standards applicable to the local DNO’s.
Part of the IDNO’s license conditions are to ensure 24/7 emergency response, like a DNO. where an IDNO is informed of an emergency a response procedure will be actioned to ensure the network is made safe and any supply fault is isolated and rectified as quickly as possible within the OFGEM standards regarding continuity of supply.
An Independent Distribution Network Operator works alongside DNO’s and ICP’s. They are companies that develop, own, operate and maintain electricity distribution systems within the DNO network. They are responsible for carrying power to homes and businesses across the UK. These businesses are typically connected to Distribution Network Operators either directly or through other Independent Distribution Network Operators and are able to provide their services to a wider range of customers.
Here at Network Power Connections, we are proud to offer our expertise for your new electricity connections from design through to energisation. We offer a wide range of services to ensure that we provide you with the highest quality and cost effective solutions.
If you would like more information or further assistance then don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our experts today. Contact us on 01905 611011 or email us at [email protected]. For further information regarding our service offerings, please visit our website www.networkpowerconnections.co.uk.
