Image of an E.ON engineer working on a grid connection
Image of an E.ON engineer working on a grid connection

What is an Independent Connection Provider (ICP)?

As a fully NERS-accredited ICP, we’ll help you understand why an ICP is the right choice for your grid connections.

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Independent connection providers explained...

An ICP is a business that has been certified by the National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) to connect electrical infrastructure to the grid. ICPs are in charge of designing, building, and managing electrical infrastructure, like new connections to the electricity grid or adjustments to connections that already exist.

As a registered ICP, E.ON will not only provide you with years of established experience, but we can also give you a single point of contact for all your electricity connections, making the process less complicated. This can be particularly beneficial for large projects, reducing the amount of administration needed and allowing you to concentrate on other areas of your project.

Make your connection with an ICP

Construction companies and developers that build new housing plots and need to connect to the electricity network frequently use ICPs. In these circumstances, ICPs can provide greater reliability and be more economical than a traditional Distribution Network Operator (DNO), which regulations and budget may limit.

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Why choose E.ON as your independent connection provider?

All your grid connection needs covered

We can connect a wide range of properties, from new homes to business buildings and self-built homes. From one to twenty, or possibly more, depending on existing network constraints and property loads.

Complete grid solutions

We'll help you every step of the way by planning, building, and testing brand-new electricity grids for your development.

Multiple-solution partnerships

We can help you with a variety of aspects of your development, such as connecting to the grid, street lighting design, setting up an EV infrastructure, and connecting meters.

Image of an E.ON engineer working on a grid connection
Image of an E.ON engineer working on a grid connection

Who might need an ICP?

An ICP can help any business in the UK that needs a new or upgraded connection to the energy grid.

There are two types of elements that go into making new connections to the grid or upgrading existing ones, and they're called contestable and non-contestable works. A Distribution Network Operator (DNO) or an accredited ICP carries out these types of work. These activities include electrical design, cable laying and jointing, substation installation, and civil works.

What's the difference between contestable and non-contestable works?

Contestable works are the components of the connection's work that an ICP or Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) can carry out. The components of the connection work that the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) or the assigned agents (ICPs) must complete are non-contestable works.

Here are a few examples of the differences between the two types of works:

We work with developers across the UK

Our reach extends across the nation, England, Scotland, and Wales, using dedicated account managers to support your housing development from construction to completion. We'll use our experience, knowledge, and specialised technology to meet all of your needs, no matter how big or small. From EV infrastructure and metering to street lighting and grid connections, we have various solutions that can improve your development.

ICP FAQs

Are ICPs responsible for acquiring connection permits and permissions?

E.ON will administratively control the connection procedure. This entails obtaining permits, licences, and permissions from local authorities, DNOs, and others. We'll complete the documentation and verify regulatory compliance.

What are the typical costs of using an ICP?

The price will depend on the needs of your project. Requesting a complete ICP quote for design, installation, and connection by completing our online form, we'll then be in touch to discuss your options and work out the most cost-effective plan to suit your budget.

What is NERs and are ICPs regulated?

NERS regulates and standardises UK electrical distribution by providing defined requirements, scopes, and responsibilities that ICPs must follow when working on electricity networks for their customers.

ICPs must follow regulations and industry standards to ensure connection infrastructure safety, reliability, and compliance. They must adhere to regulatory guidelines and work with DNOs and energy providers, of which we are one, to help streamline the process.

What is the average ICP connection time?

Connection time depends on project complexity, site circumstances, and approvals. ICPs offer faster connection times than the DNO route to speed up the process and reduce delays.

Can E.ON help with renewable energy?

We can support your business with a varied number of renewable options, helping your business switch to a more sustainable future.

Image of colleagues looking at information on a laptop.
Image of colleagues looking at information on a laptop.

Lets talk grid connections

If you still have questions or are interested in working with us to connect to the grid, just fill out our online form, and we'll give you a call to talk about your needs.

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