Leep Utilities launches EHV team to boost data centre services

Leep Utilities has introduced a specialist extra-high-voltage (EHV) team to bolster its offerings following several significant contract wins in the data centre sector. The move aims to enhance Leep’s capabilities in providing utility grid connections, 132kV networks, and smart battery energy storage solutions for high-consumption industrial and commercial users.

The company maintains ownership and management of all electrical elements, from the point of connection to metering, throughout the entire contract duration. This strategic move is expected to increase operational efficiency and flexibility for Leep’s clientele, which includes some of the world's largest data centre operators.

Leep Utilities is leveraging this new team to enhance utility services and assist its customers in repurposing waste heat for local heat networks. This initiative aims to help clients boost their revenue and sustainability credentials while reducing grid dependency and improving overall energy efficiency.

Matt Ling, Director of Business Development at Leep Utilities, emphasised the value the new EHV team brings. “Our success with EHV customers is founded on the team’s expertise and the many added value services we provide. Through early engagement, a holistic consultative approach, and seeking out value in the supply chain - thanks to the transparency that our adoption-only model affords - we’re able to help high consumption users to operate most cost-efficiently and cost-effectively, all with the support of our in-house legal team,” said Ling.

A pressing issue for EHV operators has been the rigidity in the specification of network components, which often leads to blockages and inefficiencies. As an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), Leep Utilities offers increased flexibility regarding electric plant and design. This allows the company to provide bespoke solutions tailored to customers' specific needs and deliver optimal pricing and timing.

Separating Asset Adoption Value payments from design and build costs has been another strategic measure by Leep Utilities. This approach aims to maximise the supply chain, which can be particularly crucial during critical cash flow periods for high-consumption users.

Commenting on the rapid evolution of the UK data centre industry, Ling stated, “The UK data centre industry continues to rapidly evolve and the surge in its demand is unprecedented. We’re already a proven electricity supplier of choice to a number of the biggest global brands and we’re now very much looking forward to further increasing our footprint and credentials with a dedicated expert team in place and many added value benefits that our customers are loving.”

Leep Utilities was established as a joint venture between Ancala Partners and The Peel Group. The firm manages regulated and non-regulated utility networks across the UK, including sites such as Media City, Liverpool Waters, and Canary Wharf. The company offers last-mile utility solutions for various developments, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects, adopting networks for electricity, water, wastewater, and heating.