Power company takes command

An energy company has launched its own mobile command unit to help it manage major incidents and emergencies.

UK Power Networks has spent more than £130,000 on the vehicle, which will be equipped with satellite navigation systems, remote network access, high-definition monitors and Airwave handsets as well as its own generator and floodlights.

The unit, similar to those used by the emergency services, will be sent to the scene of serious incidents to help restoration of power supplies and provide a base for the incident commander and their team.

It will be kept at UK Power Networks’ Nelson Street site in East Ham, London. From this central location it can be easily deployed anywhere in the company’s region which covers London, the South East and East of England.

Patrick Clarke, director of network operations at UK Power Networks, said: ““We are delighted with the new mobile command unit.

“Although serious incidents remain rare, the new vehicle ensures that, when something does go wrong, we are in the best possible position to deal with it and restore power supplies to our customers as quickly and safely as possible.”

Mark Fiske, operational telecoms manager at UK Power Networks (pictured), added: “It will give us a clear presence on site. The fact the public will be able to see and identify us should reassure them that we are treating the incident seriously.

“It will effectively be a mobile office. Depending on how serious an incident is, our staff may need to hold briefings, conference calls and meetings. This vehicle will allow them to do that on the spot."

The emergency services and the National Grid already have similar units. The vehicle has a 5.5 ton chassis which has had a bespoke body built to fit UK Power Network’s requirements.

Fiske added: “We are confident it will be very effective and a great asset for us and our customers.”