New supply chain framework will support jobs, training and business growth from North Wales to South Ayrshire
SP Energy Networks is ditching diesel for vegetable oil as part of a £46 million generator fleet investment designed to cut carbon emissions, support jobs and keep the lights on for customers.
It has appointed four specialist firms – Generator Hire North Wales, Generator Power, GWF Generators and Rehlko – to a new four-year generator hire framework that will support customers during planned works and power cuts across central and southern Scotland, Cheshire, Merseyside, Shropshire and North Wales.
The move will see SP Energy Networks’ back-up generators powered by cleaner hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) instead of traditional diesel. The renewable fuel is made from waste products like cooking oil, vegetable oils and animal fats, producing far lower carbon emissions than conventional diesel.
However, the benefits of the investment go far beyond cutting carbon, with the multi-million framework supporting jobs, training opportunities and business growth across the company’s operating areas – from North Wales to South Ayrshire.
Aileen Rourke, SP Energy Networks’ Licence Director, said, “Our new framework is a real game-changer for how we operate and it’s great to welcome our supply chain partners on board – some we’re working with for the first time. By switching from diesel to renewable fuel, we’re cutting emissions while making sure we continue to keep the lights on for customers if our network is unavailable.
“But it’s not just about going greener. This is about supporting local businesses, creating jobs and skills opportunities, and helping communities benefit from our investment – right on their doorstep – and our partners are testament to that. That’s the real power of our investment in the UK – everybody wins.”
