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Members of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) have been instrumental in new guidance that has been published by the Energy Networks Association (ENA).
The guidance, about how to ensure safety with secondary low-voltage electrical supplies could play a major role in applications for life safety services and the roll-out of electrification such as electric vehicle charging.
Buildings such as hospitals and high-risk residential buildings, rely on this secondary source of energy supply, which is usually conducted through generators. These generators ensure consistent, uninterrupted use in the event of a power cut or fire. This can be lifesaving in situations such as when surgery is taking place, or when fire alarms and sprinklers need to be activated.
In 2023, ECA Members told the trade association that it was difficult to apply for multiple low voltage supplies where additional capacity or a secondary source was required. This was as a result of having to navigate a myriad of operators which manage the electrical distribution across the UK, and inconsistencies with guidance between them.
ECA met and worked together with the ENA to discuss these issues brought forward by electrical industry leaders, to find solutions. The ENA took all comments into consideration when it was producing this guidance known as Engineering Recommendations G94 Managing the Risks Associated with the Provision of Multiple Connections in Close Proximity.
Darren Crannis, Technical Manager at ECA, said: “Back in 2023, many of our Members faced real challenges when applying for multiple low-voltage supplies—especially to support growth and the rollout of low carbon technologies like EV charging. This new guidance provides much-needed clarity and consistency for managing the risks of multiple connections in close proximity.”
