Network Plus, in partnership with Speedy Hire and Sunbelt Rentals, is leading the way towards a greener future for the utilities industry.  

Petrol-driven equipment such as disc cutters, vibrating plates and breakers is being replaced by electric models powered by daylight. A new solar charging station at the company’s Worsley depot, provided by Think Hire, uses daylight to charge its internal batteries, which in turn are used to charge up re-chargeable tool batteries overnight ready for action the day after.  

These products are not only reducing Network Plus’s environmental impact, supporting our ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) target of being net zero by 2040, the decrease in damaged or failed equipment and reduction in fuel costs is expected to save the business up to 30% in whole life costs.  

The new equipment also offers a safer way of working as it is lighter, with reduced lower hand/arm vibration, and removes the noise and CO2 fumes of petrol-driven models.  

Ashley Houghton, Group Head of Procurement, says:  
“This is a great leap forward for Network Plus, the first of many initiatives that takes us into a new generation of working in a more environmentally friendly manner.” 

Dave Flemming, Head of Plant, adds:
“We’ve worked extensively with our hire partners and upon successful trails we now have the very best equipment on the market to support our business to deliver operationally, whilst also being kinder to our environment.”

The initial roll-out has already successfully begun at Network Plus HQ, with Metering & Reinstatement Gangs putting the innovative equipment to work. In the first week 76% (64kw) of the energy to charge the tool batteries came from solar/battery storage. A great step for Network Plus towards a greener future.