Unlocking utility savings

Utilities play a crucial role in the success of any project, so it’s important to consider them early on to avoid additional expense and lengthy delays to your project. This becomes especially crucial due to the increasing demand on utility companies to provide new and improved infrastructure. Recently, SLC Property was given the opportunity to support a client with providing new connections for two new railway stations in the West Midlands.

Challenge

Securing new utility connections is a common challenge in infrastructure projects – often inflexible, costly and bound by regional limitations when working with traditional Distribution Network Operators (DNOs).

Solution

Rather than following the conventional DNO route, SLC Property proposed and made all the arrangements to work with an Independent Connection Provider (ICP) and Independent Distribution Network Operator (iDNO). These providers operate outside geographical restrictions and can often offer more competitive pricing, greater flexibility and faster connection times. This shift in strategy delivered approximately 20% in cost savings for the client and brought greater certainty and control over the connection timeline.

Results

  • 20% cost savings on utility connection costs.
  • Improved delivery certainty for critical infrastructure timelines.
  • Greater flexibility in procurement and provider choice.
  • A repeatable solution for few infrastructure schemes.

People involved on this project

Edward Jones has joined SLC Property

Ed Jones MRICS

Utilities Director

Edward Jones has joined SLC Property

Ed Jones MRICS

Utilities Director

Edward has a comprehensive background in strategic development, utilities, and property acquisition spanning over two decades. His expertise extends to managing land acquisitions, negotiating complex compensation claims, and overseeing diverse portfolios for clients such as HS2 Ltd, Network Rail, and Severn Trent Water.

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