UK Power Networks slashes connections quotes to just minutes
Posted by: electime 16th December 2024
UK Power Networks is slashing customer wait times for formal quotes on high voltage connections, to just a few minutes with launch of new digital platform.
HV (high voltage) Auto Quote will slash lead-in times for commercial customers like house builders and developers, plus EV hub installers, who want to connect to the local electricity network and request a quote.
The process to calculate a quote used to be manual, and required site assessments, but the new tool uses digital data so can see when there is already a high-voltage connection point nearby. It means a formal quote can be offered instantly, or if needed the application can be referred straight to an engineer.
UK Power Networks is now the first distribution network operator to offer instant formal quotes that customers can accept, for connections to its high voltage network. The £2million project was developed in partnership with software providers, EA Technology, and co-designed with customers over the past two years. HV Auto Quote is currently being rolled out across the South East, with London and the East of England to follow.
Luca Grella, head of innovation at UK Power Networks said: “HV Auto Quote is not just a tool; it’s a game-changer for our customers. By digitising the high-voltage connection process, we’re transforming what once took months into mere minutes, allowing customers to connect with confidence and clarity.
“With the number of connection requests projected to significantly increase as we move towards Net Zero, HV Auto Quote adds to our growing suite of digital tools that will allow us to meet this challenge head on. Customers are now able to apply online, assess their options and receive budget estimates and formal quotations in a matter of minutes.”
William Auloni, utilities manager at White Code Consulting and an HV Auto Quote customer said: “The system is very easy to use and saves a lot of time. It makes the process of requesting a quote as straightforward as possible, which has made a world of difference in my work. My only complaint is that I wish it had come along earlier.”
