Meaning of ICP
ICP (Independent Connection Provider) Meaning
An Independent Connection Provider (ICP) is a NERS-accredited company authorised to carry out electricity network connection works for clients, including new installations, upgrades, or diversions.
Who can use an ICP?
Any UK businesses that require a new connection to the electricity grid can use an Independent Connection Provider (ICP) for part of the work.
New and upgraded connections to the UK electricity grid involve two types of works: contestable and non-contestable works. Contestable works are activities that can be undertaken by an accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP) or a Distribution Network Operator (see What is a DNO?) encompassing a variety of activities, such as electrical design, cable laying and jointing, substation installation and civil works. Non-contestable works, on the other hand, can only be undertaken by DNOs.
ICPs are usually employed alongside an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), either directly by the end client, or via the IDNO on behalf of the end client, and the ICP/IDNO carry out the contestable works together as part of a new, or upgraded grid connection.
Read about the contestable works that can be carried out by Independent Connection Providers.
What Do ICPs Actually Do?
Contestable works
Tasks that can be carried out by either an accredited ICP or the local DNO. These include:
- Designing the new connection layout
- Laying and jointing underground electricity cables
- Installing substations and electrical switchgear
- Excavation and reinstatement (civil works)
Non-contestable works
Tasks that only the local DNO is allowed to perform. These often relate to safety-critical parts of the network or final commissioning. Examples include:
- Approving final network connection designs
- Making live connections to the existing DNO network
- Final testing and commissioning of the connection
- Operating high-voltage network switchgear
- Updating the DNO’s network records and diagrams
When Should You Use An Independent Connection Provider?
An Independent Connection Provider (ICP) should be used when you need to connect a new development or project to the electricity network and want more flexibility, potentially lower costs, or quicker timelines than going through the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) alone.
Here’s when you can use an ICP:
1. New Connections
When you’re building new homes, commercial properties, or infrastructure that requires a new electricity supply.
2. Upgrading Existing Connections
If you need to increase the power supply to an existing site, for example, a warehouse expanding its operations or a manufacturing site increasing demand.
3. Wanting Faster Turnaround
DNOs can have long lead times. Many developers use ICPs to get work started faster and avoid delays.
4. Looking for Competitive Pricing
ICPs often provide more competitive quotes than DNOs for contestable works (like laying cables or installing substations).
5. Working on Private Land
If the connection work is entirely on private land, ICPs can carry out the full job without needing DNO involvement (other than final connection sign-off).
6. For Better Project Control
ICPs offer more flexibility in scheduling, phasing, and coordinating with your other contractors on-site.
What are IDNOs and How They Are Different From ICPs?
An IDNO (Independent Distribution Network Operator) is a company licensed to own and maintain electricity networks. Once a new connection is built, the IDNO takes over and becomes responsible for managing the network like handling things like ongoing maintenance, customer supply, and upgrades.
Now, compare that with an ICP, or Independent Connection Provider. ICPs are the ones who physically build the connection to the electricity grid. That includes laying cables, installing substations, and doing the hands-on work to get your site connected. However, once the job is done, ICPs don’t stay involved as they don’t own or run the network.
So, what’s the difference in simple terms?
- ICPs build the network.
- IDNOs own and operate the network after it’s built.
Both work closely together during a new grid connection project, but their roles are very different. If you’re planning a new development – whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial, you’ll likely deal with both an ICP and an IDNO at different stages of the process.
Why Choose AIS Utilities as Your Independent Connection Provider (ICP)?
AIS Utilities delivers trusted, NERS-accredited ICP services that help businesses and developers complete their grid connection projects efficiently and on time. Here’s why partnering with AIS Utilities makes a difference:
Greater Flexibility
Working with AIS Utilities gives you more control over how your electricity connection is delivered. Our team offers tailored solutions that align with your project’s specific needs, timelines, and technical requirements.
Cost-Effective Delivery
Our ICP services are designed to keep costs down without compromising on safety, quality, or compliance. By streamlining project planning and execution, we help clients achieve better value from their grid connection investment.
Access to a Wider Network of Experts
Choosing AIS Utilities means tapping into a broad network of experienced professionals. We connect you with the right people and providers for your project, ensuring the best match in terms of capability, sector experience, and technical skills.