Consumer vulnerability at #ENIC21

15:00 Welcome
Chair: Simon Roberts OBE, Chief Executive, Centre for Sustainable Energy

15:05 Keeping people safe, warm and independent in their home
Anyone can be vulnerable if their circumstances change. Rather than using labels, we should focus on individual needs and what we can do to ensure customers stay safe, warm, connected and independent in their home.
Find out about how Cadent is achieving this through three flagship projects:

No Power Hot Water: exploring alternative ways to supply hot water during gas outages
EasyAssist Emergency Control Valve (ECV) – remote actuation: supporting customers with mobility and limb weakness challenges in the event of a gas emergency
Retro-fit no sounding alarm: a more inclusive way to alert customers to a gas/carbon monoxide escape
Rebecca Payne, Innovation Project Manager – Eastern Network, Cadent Gas

15:20 Socially Green: making the net zero transition work for all
It’s vital that we address the needs of all of our customers and make sure that our services are inclusive and fair for all. It’s also critical that no one is left behind as the UK transitions to a net zero energy system driven by technological revolution. Join this presentation to learn more about Socially Green, a detailed research project that is assessing the needs of our current and future customers who may be disadvantaged or in vulnerable circumstances.
Romina Arefin, Innovation Engineer, UK Power Networks

15:35 StreetScore: supporting customers on the pathway to net zero
In preparation for a net zero gas network, utilities will be replacing metal pipes at a rate of around 4,000km a year, so street works will remain a common feature of communities in the lead-up to 2035. StreetScore is a set of risk impact assessment tools and innovative onsite solutions that aims to reduce the risk, inconvenience and disruption to customers’ lives, especially the more vulnerable people in our society. Nigel will talk you through what was achieved during phase one of the project and plans for phase two.
Nigel Winnan, Customer and Social Obligations Strategy Manager, Wales & West Utilities

15:50 Q&A panel
Moderator:
Simon Roberts OBE, Chief Executive, Centre for Sustainable Energy
Panellists:
Romina Arefin, Innovation Engineer, UK Power Networks
Nigel Winnan, Customer and Social Obligations Strategy Manager, Wales & West Utilities
Rebecca Payne, Innovation Project Manager – Eastern Network, Cadent Gas

16:25 Wrap-up
Simon Roberts OBE, Chief Executive, Centre for Sustainable Energy