What we do

In both our distribution areas, (SEPD and SHEPD) our first priority is to provide a safe and reliable supply of electricity to our domestic, commercial and industrial customers alike. It is our responsibility to maintain, repair and improve this network and since the companies were formed, we have invested millions of pounds in the electricity infrastructure.

Because the distribution of electricity within a ‘licenced’ area is considered a monopoly activity, the income which each of our businesses is able to earn is closely monitored and controlled by the Regulator, Ofgem (Office of gas and electricity markets). The Regulator also dictates what levels of investment should be made in electricity networks.

The electricity distribution and transmission parts of the industry have five yearly price control review periods, when the levels of investment and income are reviewed. The current price control runs to March 2010.

Against this background, our objective is to match the network infrastructure development to the growth in demand for electricity. We work to ensure the electricity network is inherently safe with the minimum number of faults. We aim to have an electricity network that is as robust as it can be in the face of severe weather or other significant events. Our programme of investment is geared to achieving these goals.

If you would like to know more about how electricity is generated, transmitted and distributed to customers, the GCSE factsheets on the website of our trade association the Energy Networks Association will help you.