Specialist

Introduction to Electrical Networks and the Electricity Supply Industry

  • 7 available

Course summary

This one-day course delivers an essential understanding of the electricity distribution industry in the UK. Aimed at anyone with an interest in electrical networks or the electrical supply sector, it introduces the most common network structures, major components and the concepts behind network function and operation.

It will provide a robust foundation of the UK electricity supply sector, demystifying the terminology, key concepts and the roles and structures within the industry, without using confusing jargon.

By the end of the course delegates will have an appreciation of the dynamics of electrical networks, key technologies, engineering culture, the future challenges that face the industry today and the need for change in the future.

Course itinerary

  • UK electrical networks overview – A network’s purpose – The evolution of network structures – The components of a network – How do you get from power station to plug? – The electricity distribution
  • Network economics – The regulatory regime – The breakdown of a typical electricity bill – The commercial, safety and other drivers for the UK industry
  • Network principles – The regulatory regime

  • Definition, role and purpose
  • How they work
  • Basic construction
  • Different types, what they do and what they look like
  • What can go wrong – Design, selection, installation and operation – Transformer failures – What are the impacts
  • Key considerations for network operators – How does the affect your organisation’s bottom line? – Future issues

  • Definition, role and purpose
  • Types of switchgear
  • Basic network topologies
  • What can go wrong – Failures and impacts
  • Key considerations for network operators
  • Key considerations for network operators – How does the affect your organisation’s bottom line? – Future issues

  • Definitions, roles and purpose
  • Examples of different distribution cables and their makeup
  • Examples of LV, HV and transmission line construction
  • Key considerations for network operators – Planning, construction, installation, operation and maintenance – Common problems with the operational cables of overhead lines – Asset Management perspectives – How does the affect your organisation’s bottom line? – Future issues

  • Understanding operational perspectives
  • The need for rigorous rules and standards

  • Change is on the way
  • What this means for DNO’s

Why attend?

Delegates will gain an invaluable understanding of:

  • The basics of electricity supply
  • The main concepts of power plant and distribution systems – functions, role and importance
  • What networks are designed to do and why they have been designed that way
  • The industry structure and industry terminology
  • Engineering roles and culture
  • Key electrical principles
  • The regulatory framework
  • Standards and licensing arrangements that organisations must operate within
  • Overview of the main components of electrical distribution systems
  • Appreciation of challenges currently facing network operators
  • How it is anticipated that the industry will change in the future

Really enjoyed it second time in person, makes a big difference. Engaging and overall, really useful for me.

Emily, 4 November 2021

Andi is a very knowledgeable gentleman who has managed to present what could be a very difficult and advanced subject into something which is very easy to understand and digest. Thank you very much.

Cherise, 4 November 2021

Good day and trainer Andi was knowledgeable and patient answering questions. Really enjoyable day.

Sharon, 4 November 2021

Fantastic presentation. Learnt a lot of new stuff and it clarified a lot of things I thought I knew about networks and the industry.

Oliver, 4 November 2021

Brilliant presentation for novices, great introduction.

Dennis, 23 June 2022

Good content, difficult to pitch content at multiple levels.

David, 23 June 2022

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