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Data Centres

As the data centre market in the UK is growing and transforming, the challenge of managing power needs and ensuring sustainability remains a constant concern.

Working closely with our specialist Grid Consultancy team, we analyse the network data to secure your capacity, meet your power requirements and advise on electricity supply for both current and future demand.

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Data Centre UK

Full Turnkey Solutions

One of the key factors in the successful delivery of our projects is the early-stage engagement with our clients. When your grid connection is likely to be the critical path risk to your overall Data Centre projects, don’t leave it to luck, leave it to the experts at eSmart Networks.


Trusted Project Delivery

As a market-leading Independent Connection Provider (ICP), eSmart Networks has the in-house expertise and proficiency to help Data Centre Developers connect to the grid in the most cost-effective and time-efficient way.

End to end support

The early engagement of eSmart Networks means we can help define the optimal connection architecture for your project.

Our Grid team includes expert engineers who have joined us from transmission and distribution system operators. This deep knowledge and experience, coupled with our various licences and accreditations, enable us to support our customers throughout the entire project life cycle.

Navigate The Process

Developers face many challenges as they plan a development from inception, manage the design, engage with relevant stakeholders and see the project through all stages, working with third parties, to completion.

Grid Studies

We analyse the DNO Network to secure the most cost-effective point of connection, looking out for any third-party land issues that could put your programme at risk.

Design Value Engineering

A cost-effective solution, ensuring the correct DNO/IDNO grid infrastructure has been designed for your project requirements.

What contributes to the success of our projects?

  • 1
    Innate Insight

  • 2
    Initial engagement

  • 3
    Construct

Services

As a NERS-accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP), we ensure your project is connected to the grid swiftly and cost-effectively.

Grid Solutions
Our in-house team of grid experts ensure more certainty on timescale and cost through a range of connection optioneering, technical due diligence and concept design services.
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Design
Our pre-construction project managers provide a dedicated point of contact in the early project stages and work with our civil design teams to create compliance designs to match our client needs as well as all UK DNOs.
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Construct
eSmart Networks provides comprehensive engineering solutions for your project, endorsed by chartered civil & electrical engineers, covering excavation, cable laying, foundations, substations and more.
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FAQs

Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about what we do and how we do it. Whether you’re new to independent connection grid connections or need some detailed guidance, our FAQs are here to help.

As an Independent Connections Provider (ICP), we help connect a range of projects to the grid. We work closely with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNO) to make sure everything is safe, reliable, and up to UK standards.

Browse this section for answers and tips on your connection needs.

What is an Independant Connection Provider (ICP)?

An Independent Connections Provider (ICP) refers to a recognized company capable of constructing electricity networks to meet the specific standards and quality necessary for acceptance by either a DNO, like UK Power Networks, or an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO).

How does using an ICP benefit me as a data centre developer?

Involving an ICP offers numerous advantages, such as expediting connection times, ensuring cost-effectiveness, leveraging specialized expertise, having the flexibility to select a provider, and receiving customized solutions for your unique connection requirements.

What Is An Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO)?

An Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) is a certified organisation with a broader role compared to an Independent Connection Provider (ICP). The ICP is responsible for constructing the electrical infrastructure and making the necessary connections. Once the IDNO takes over, it assumes ownership of the regional electricity network and is responsible for its ongoing maintenance, as well as handling fault repairs around the clock.

What Is The National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS)?

National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS). As part of an ongoing process to introduce competition to the electrical service market, eSmart Networks operates under the National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) on behalf of the UK Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). NERS is managed by Lloyds Accreditation.

What are Contestable Works?

Contestable Works: Connection works that can be carried out by eSmart Networks an Independant Connections Provider (ICP). You have a choice when deciding who shall complete these elements of your connection.

What are Non-Contestable Works?

Non-Contestable Works: These are connection works that must be performed exclusively by the host Distribution Network Operator (DNO). In order to ensure the safety and reliability of the distribution network. Furthermore, as an ICP, you cannot select another entity to carry out these specific aspects of your connection. As a result, it is required by law for the DNO to handle them.

What is High Voltage (HV)?

In the UK, “high voltage” (HV) refers to electrical voltage levels above the standard home voltage of 230 volts. It is commonly used in industrial applications, power transmission, and distribution networks.

High voltage systems are regulated by organisations like National Grid Electricity Transmission and local distribution network operators. Subsequently ensuring safe, reliable transmission and distribution of electricity, consequently following safety standards and regulations.

What is Extra High Voltage (EHV)?

EHV stands for Extra High Voltage. It refers to the highest voltage levels used in electrical power transmission systems, ranging from 345 kV to 1200 kV. Providing the long distance delivery of electricity with reduced losses.