Independent Connection Provider (ICP)
Trusted Independent Connection Providers for solar, storage, and grid connection projects.
Smarter, Faster Grid Connections with Shawton Utilities
As an Independent Connection Provider (ICP), Shawton Utilities is accredited to deliver the contestable elements of grid connection projects. Under the UK’s National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS), ICPs are authorised to carry out works such as electrical design, cable laying, jointing, substation works, and other infrastructure ahead of handover to the Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
By working with an ICP like Shawton, your project gains increased choice, commercial efficiency, and flexibility, while still meeting rigorous technical and safety standards.
Our Capabilities
Shawton Utilities offers a full suite of ICP services, scalable across a wide range of voltage levels and project sizes:
Feasibility & Grid Studies
We assess site constraints, load requirements, and network capacity early to define your best connection options.
Electrical Design & Engineering
From low voltage (LV) up to higher distribution levels, we design the network, substations, switchgear, and protection systems in compliance with DNO/IDNO standards.
Civil Works & Infrastructure
Trenching, reinstatement, ducting, earthing, foundations — all delivered in-house or via trusted subcontractors under our quality control.
Cable Installation & Jointing
HV/LV cable routes, joints, terminations, and full testing.
Substation & Transformer Works
Design, supply, install, and commission substation packages, including transformers, switchgear, control systems.
Commissioning & Testing
Final checks, safety tests, DNO interface, energisation, and adoption handover.
Project Management & Stakeholder Coordination
We liaise with DNOs, local authorities, suppliers, and landowners to manage approvals, wayleaves, and coordination, giving you a single point of accountability.
Why Partner With Shawton As Your ICP?
Accredited & Trusted
As a NERS-certified provider, Shawton operates within the framework that all DNOs recognise, ensuring full compliance and confidence in handover.
Cost & Time Efficiency
By outsourcing contestable works to Shawton, clients often reduce lead times and gain cost advantages compared to going through DNO-controlled pathways.
Scalable for Renewables & Storage
We specialise in connecting utility-scale solar, battery storage (BESS), and co-located projects, ensuring the grid works for your generation, not against it.
Seamless Integration with BOP & ICP
Because Shawton also handles Balance of Plant, you get a smoother, aligned delivery from grid interface through to site infrastructure.
How the Process Works
Initial Consultation & Grid Offer
We review your Point of Connection (PoC) offer, site data, and project requirements.
Design & Proposal Stage
Electrical and civil designs are prepared, approvals sought, and a detailed proposal presented.
Construction & Delivery
Once approved, we mobilise civils, electrical installation, cable works, and substation works.
Testing, Commissioning & Handover
Complete electrical testing, safety checks, and formal adoption by the DNO/IDNO.
Ongoing Maintenance
Shawton remains on hand for maintenance, system expansions, or essential upgrades as your project evolves.
What Our Work Delivers
At Shawton Utilities, our role goes beyond installation; we provide the essential infrastructure that keeps renewable projects safe, efficient, and built to last.
By managing the design, installation, and commissioning of these works, we help our clients de-risk projects, reduce downtime, and accelerate connection to the grid. With Shawton Utilities, you gain a delivery partner focused on building infrastructure that is not only robust today but ready for the demands of tomorrow.
01
Strong Foundations Civil works that prepare sites for long-term stability.
02
Power Connections Electrical systems that safely link projects to the grid.
03
Supporting Systems Mechanical elements that keep operations running smoothly.
04
Smart Operations Control and automation for efficiency and oversight.
05
Essential Infrastructure Roads, drainage, and utilities that complete the site.
Our Projects
From battery storage to solar PV, our projects demonstrate trusted delivery at every stage.
Point Lane Solar Farm
Renewables
Location - Pembrokeshire, UK
Capacity - 8.6 MWp (≈14,000 panels across 28 acres)
Orsted, Carnegie Road
Renewables
Location - Carnegie Road, Liverpool
Capacity - 20 MW
HS2 Maintenance Facility
O&M
Location - Coleshill, Birmingham
Project - Civils & New Build