Quick Metering Turnaround and Utilities Savings for Major Food Manufacturer

Connectus recently partnered with one of the UK’s leading food manufacturers, home to a portfolio of some of the country’s most well-known and loved food brands. 

With sites located across the UK and more than one billion food products manufactured each year, the business operates at an impressive scale. 

When the client acquired a new industrial unit, they needed reliable utility connections to get the site up and running and ensure the project could move forward smoothly. That’s where Connectus came in. 

Overcoming Complex Utility Challenges 

The newly acquired industrial unit required new utility infrastructure connections for water and gas , including a new electrical substation connection. 

However, the client faced several challenges that could have put pressure on an already ambitious 12-month construction programme: 

1. Multiple utility connections – The site required three separate utility connections. With there typically requiring different network operators responsible for each service, the works would have needed to be delivered sequentially rather than collaboratively, creating a risk of delays and programme clashes.
2. Short turnaround time – The client had just 12 months to complete the build, meaning there was little room for delays.
3. An existing gas supply –In order to proceed with the new gas supply installation, the existing supply and rotary gas meter needed to be safely disconnected.

Coordinating Utilities from Start to Finish 

Connectus Utilities managed the Gas, Electricity and Water utility requirements, including the Section 106 application and quotation process. To secure the most competitive solution, Connectus tendered the gas, electrical substation and water utility designs and associated costs to a number of preferred network partners. 

The selected partner then coordinated the gas and water infrastructure works during the construction phase, ensuring the works were delivered efficiently and in line with the wider development programme. 

Connectus Utilities also procured the gas and electricity energy contracts and coordinated the installation of the gas and electricity HV metering alongside the utility connection works. 

Working with the gas Meter Asset Management partner, Connectus also coordinated the closure of the existing meter and energy account and arranged for the supply to be disconnected, ensuring the site was ready for the new utility connections by managing the project through to completion. 

The Results: £8,185 Saving Delivered 

By coordinating with our network of preferred utility partners, Connectus was able to secure a significantly more competitive gas infrastructure cost. 

The original Gas Network quotation was £54,425.17, while Connectus secured the works through its preferred partner for £46,240. 

This delivered a saving of £8,185.17, equivalent to 15% against the original network quotation. 

If you’ve got a new project in the pipeline and need support with new connections, upgrades, disconnections or temporary supply, Connectus can manage the project from end-to-end and secure the best possible rates for your contract. Get in touch today to find out more about how we can support your organisation.