ECA Members (Electrical Contractors’ Association) have been instrumental in new guidance that has been published by the Energy Networks Association (ENA). The guidance details how to ensure safety with secondary low-voltage electrical supplies for life safety services and the roll-out of electrification such as electric vehicle charging.
Buildings such as hospitals, datacentres and high-risk residential buildings, rely on this secondary source of energy supply, which is usually conducted through generators. These generators ensure consistent, uninterrupted use in the event of a power cut or fire. This can be lifesaving in situations such as when surgery is taking place, or when fire alarms and sprinklers need to be activated.
In 2023, ECA Members told the trade association that it was difficult to apply for multiple low-voltage supplies where additional capacity or secondary source was required. This was as a result of having to navigate a myriad of operators which manage the electrical distribution across the UK, and inconsistencies with guidance between them.
ECA met and worked together with the ENA to discuss these issues brought forward by electrical industry leaders, to find solutions.
The ENA took all comments into consideration when it was producing this guidance known as Engineering Recommendations G94 Managing the Risks Associated with the Provision of Multiple Connections in Close Proximity.
This is the first time that ECA Members have influenced changes to UK-wide guidance for electricity distribution network operators (DNOs). This shows the importance of ECA Members’ voices in shaping and enhancing the electrotechnical industry, to ensure a safer and more resilient UK as it moves towards a fully electrified future.
Darren Crannis, Technical Manager at ECA, said:
“Back in 2023, many of our Members faced real challenges when applying for multiple low-voltage supplies—especially to support growth and the rollout of low carbon technologies like EV charging.
“Through a series of roundtable discussions and close collaboration with the ENA, we helped shape Engineering Recommendation G94.
“This new guidance provides much-needed clarity and consistency for managing the risks of multiple connections in close proximity. We’re proud to have contributed to its development and fully welcome its publication.”
Mark Dunk, Head of Engineering at Energy Networks Association, said:
"The increasing demand for grid connections, particularly driven by the rapid growth of low carbon technologies, has introduced new challenges right across the electricity industry. In particular, we are managing the associated technical and safety risks when practitioners work on customer premises located in close proximity.
“Addressing this is essential to supporting the transition to a net zero energy system while maintaining network integrity and public safety. That’s why we’re proud to collaborate with ECA on the development of EREC G94. This initiative supports our shared goal to provide clear and consistent guidance for a smarter, more resilient energy network.”
Last updated 17 July 25