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UTILITY WEEK LIVE 2025'S CONTENT PROGRAMME LAUNCHES IN JANUARY 2025

TAKE A LOOK AT LAST YEAR'S PROGRAMME

UWL24 offered more free content than ever before, with six stages running across two days. These included the new Energy Flexibility stage, exploring the emerging policy and mechanisms as well as technical solutions for flexibility.

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21 May 2024
  1. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    The UK could have some of the cheapest electricity in Europe, if not the cheapest. Instead, it spends hundreds of millions per year curtailing abundant, green wind energy in favour of dirty fossil fuel back-ups.  

    As we rapidly electrify our world – transforming how we both generate and consume our energy – we also need to reimagine the energy markets that deliver it.  

    Locational pricing could deliver well over £50 billion in savings to the UK by 2040, while unlocking vast amounts of green generation and cost savings to consumers.  

    In order to unleash the full potential of abundant renewables, we need a paradigm shift in our energy system. Join Greg Jackson as he explores the role of locational pricing in making our grid work smarter, not harder. 



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Panel
    Greg Jackson, founder and chief executive, Octopus Energy
  2. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    Sponsored by:

    SSEN DSO
    The UK's ambitious carbon reduction targets have been set at the highest level of government - but in a year of political change, that leadership has necessarily been put on hold. Yet the utilities industry remains firmly committed to achieving net zero, and knows there isn't a moment to waste. Unearth how industry can step into the gap, leading the charge on net zero, setting the pace, delivering innovation and holding themselves to account - even while delivering infrastructure on an unprecedented scale and battling cost pressures and reputational challenges. 

    Join this session to be inspired and learn how you and your organisation can lead the change. 



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Panel
    Jon Butterworth, chief executive, National Gas

    Vicky Kelsall, chief executive, SP Energy Networks

    Chris Burchell, managing director, SSEN Distribution

    Zoe Frogbrook, head of environment and sustainability, Northumbrian Water Group
  3. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    At a time when UK utilities need to embrace innovation and deliver capital projects on an unprecedented scale, regulators discuss how they can collaborate to drive whole systems thinking across National Critical Infrastructure. Regulators must prioritise environmental protection and low carbon solutions while removing regulatory barriers to productivity. Do we need to reimagine the existing regulatory regime  

    Join this session to unearth how regulators can remove blockers for networks, water companies, retailers and developers.  

    Questions to discuss:  
    How can regulators encourage whole life cost and carbon in projects? 
    What can regulators do to help foster collaboration and innovation across the whole value chain?  
    How can regulators support industry through AMP8, RIIO 2/3 and ED 2? 



    Chair introduction
    Jane Gray, content director, Utility Week

    Panel
    Akshay Kaul, director general, Ofgem

    Gillian Pratt, deputy director, Environment Agency
  4. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    The utilities industry has been under the microscope for environmental impact and increased cost to consumers. How can utilities transform public perceptions and win back trust?  

    Join this session to discover how utilities can rebuild their reputation and tell the story of all the hard work that goes into keeping the lights on, the heat pumping and the taps running. 

     



    Chair introduction
    Jane Gray, content director, Utility Week

    Panel
    Dan Roberts, partner, Brunswick Group
  5. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    It’s a simple fact that accessing low carbon technologies is easier for consumers on a higher income – but to ensure a successful transition to a net zero economy, everyone must be engaged, and everyone must benefit, at all levels of society. Rebuilding consumer trust, educating consumers on pollution, and encouraging customers to embrace sustainable, low carbon technologies to assist in the energy transition is essential.  

    Join this session to debate what we mean by a ‘just transition’, and discover how it can be achieved.  

     



    Chair introduction
    Jane Gray, content director, Utility Week

    Panel
    Dr Brenda Boardman MBE, Emeritus fellow, Environmental Change Institute, University of Oxford

    Mike Gauterin, customer and technology director, United Utilities

    Imran Patel, director of customer experience, Yorkshire Water

    Monica Collings, chair, Swarm Energy
  6. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    One in four local authorities are working towards a local area energy plan (LAEP). However, for many already overstretched councils the cost and internal resources needed to complete this vital net zero blueprint have proved significant barriers to progress. With increasing pressure on statutory services, there is a risk that planning for net zero will be sidelined unless the government mandates action and provides councils the funding to deliver. 

    This session will outline Utility Week’s campaign lobbying government to mandate all local councils to produce a LAEP and provide the estimated £40 million of funding required to achieve this.

    The panel will be moderated by Utility Week editor James Wallin and will feature representatives of utilities, local authorities and expert observers.  

     



    Chair Introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Panel
    Rory Mathews, senior policy and partnerships officer (Low Carbon), Greater Manchester Combined Authority

    Chris Brierley, senior advisor, Energy Systems Catapult

    Emily Wilson-Gavin, head of corporate affairs, SSEN
  7. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    Utilities must encourage women into the industry to overcome the aging workforce, growing skills gap and pressure to transform to sustainable, decarbonised industry. People need to demonstrate their support and understanding towards women in the utilities to create long lasting change. Allyship is critical to ensuring the progression and success of women and representation at board level. Join this session to uncover how to become an intentional advocate and what operating culture organisational changes to structure and recruitment strategies need to be adopted and embedded to establish an inclusive workplace. 



    Chair introduction
    Hayley Monks, founder, Womens Utilities Network

    Panel
    Justine Leadbetter, head of demand management, Water Research Centre

    Fiona Jackson, managing director, Fiona Jackson Consulting

    Mike Keil, chief executive, CCW

    Gary Ford, co-founder, Men for Inclusion
  8. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    Net zero cannot happen without flexible energy – it’s as simple as that. Market makers, regulators and industry pioneers are working together to create an active flexibility market in the UK – but there are significant challenges ahead. Utility Week is delighted to support the emerging energy flexibility market with the launch of the Flex Awards hosted at Utility Week Live.  

    The Flex Awards will recognise market makers, movers and disruptors who are paving the way for energy flexibility to be rolled out. We will be showcasing the latest innovation, celebrating flexibility pioneers and unearthing the companies and individuals who are driving flex markets and end user engagement. 

    For information on how to enter the Awards, click here: https://www.flexawards.co.uk/



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week
22 May 2024
  1. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    At a time when utilities need to deliver infrastructure projects on a huge scale, they find themselves competing in a global market for skills and materials. Gas, power and water companies need to provide transparency to the supply chain and support their investment in skills and technology to deliver at pace. A race to the bottom on cost is no longer an option, with the responsibility to deliver social value, carbon neutral infrastructure and environmental impact incumbent at every level of the supply chain.  

    Hear experts outline how they are adapting procurement methods, engaging with the supply chain and finding new ways of working to minimise blockers to delivery. 



    Chair introduction
    Jane Gray, content director, Utility Week

    Panel
    Rob McDonald, md, transmission, SSE

    Jon Loveday, director of infrastructure, enterprise and growth, Infrastructure and Projects Authority

    Monisha Gower, assets director, Northumbrian Water
  2. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    To achieve the government’s target of a fully decarbonised energy system by 2035, the whole system needs root and branch reform. This will be led by the National Energy System Operator – a newly independent organisation which will drive a whole systems approach to electricity and gas to ensure security of supply and decarbonisation for the UK.   



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Opening remarks - NESO Future landscape
    Kayte O'Neill, director of transformation, ESO

    Panel
    Ben Godfrey, Director of Distribution System Operator, NGED

    Martin Cook, CCO, National Gas

    Teresa Camey, deputy director, energy system governance, DESNZ
  3. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    Water, gas and electricity companies are transforming and digitalising their operations to unlock efficiencies, increase network transparency and decarbonise utilities. How can businesses create a culture of change and arm the workforce with digital skills? The industry needs to collaborate and improve knowledge transfer to mitigate risk and drive the transition to a digital industry.  



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Panel
    Marzia Zafar, Deputy director, data & digitalization, Ofgem

    Martin Jackson, head of IS strategy and product management, Northumbrian Water

    Shubhi Rajnish, chief information officer, ESO
  4. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    The industry cannot do it alone – customers must transform their behaviours if the UK is to deliver a net zero energy and water system. But how can utilities inform and persuade them to do so? First, they must understand the science of behaviour change – the core principles that drive people to behave as they do. Then, they must learn how to support customers to change their behaviours.   

    It's a tall order, but there is a lot that can be done -  join this session to hear insights from behavioural science on the conscious and unconscious processes that influence customers behaviour. 



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    The science of behaviour change
    Dr Pippa Lally, senior lecturer, department of psychological sciences, University of Surrey
  5. Utility Week Forum Keynote Stage

    Amid turmoil in the energy retail market in early 2022 Ofgem introduced a temporary ban onacquisition-only tariffs (BAT) – meaning suppliers are obliged to offer the same tariffs to new and existing customers. With energy prices now stabilised Ofgem is considering the future of the BAT and has suggested it could be lifted later this year. This panel will discuss the merits of BAT and what place it might play in a post-price cap world. 



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Panel
    Simon Oscroft, co-founder and CEO, So Energy

    Dan Norton Norton, deputy director, price protection, Ofgem
21 May 2024
  1. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    Digital twins improve network transparency, support innovation and enable utilities to make rapid and informed investment decisions. A diverse range of utilities are embracing digital twins as they seek to create operational efficiencies without compromising service. Join this session to demystify digital twins, see how utilities are embracing the technology and understand what it could mean for your organisation.



    Chair introduction
    Ben Hargreaves, head of content, Utility Week

    CReDo: from demonstrator to decision optimiser
    Holly Hensler, Senior Product Manager, Connected Places Catapult

    Embracing digitalisation to protect the environment – ecological digital twin
    Carly Leonard, Anglian Water

    The Virtual Energy system
    Simon Evans, global digital energy leader, Arup

    Leveraging location to mature your digital twin
    Matt Piper, global director for industry solutions, ESRI
  2. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    Open data is at the top of the agenda for energy and water companies. Not only has it been mandated by regulators; the industry recognises that it’s key to speeding up innovation and delivering net zero. How can water, gas and electricity companies improve the interoperability of information and drive cross-sector collaboration to make open data in utilities a reality? Join this session for an update on key open data projects and hear directly from the industry’s open data pioneers.



    Chair introduction
    Emily Judson, head of research, Icebreaker One

    STREAM project update
    Melissa Tallack, open data lead, Northumbrian Water

    Building the energy sector data sharing infrastructure
    Simon Evans, global digital energy leader, Arup

    Developing the ability to share information across sectorial boundaries
    Alexandra Luck, head of programme, national digital twin programme, Department for Business and Trade

    Unlocking the value from data to drive towards a digitalised future
    Niemesh Amin, Programme Director, Trilliant
  3. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:
    Power & utilities sector | Insights, trends & services
    As distribution network operators shift to becoming DSOs, effective accurate digital infrastructure and adopting smart energy networks is essential to enabling energy flexibility, directing investment and prioritising asset management decisions on the road to net zero. How will digital networks integrate and interact with the FSO and enable the uptake of LCT for consumers? Discover the innovations, technologies and efficiencies arising from embracing smart energy networks.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Grimwood, insights editor, Utility Week

    The importance of data
    Kirsty Scott, head of network intelligence & DSO development, Scottish Power Energy Networks

    Monitoring the network and forecasting for asset management
    Nigel Bessant, head of operations, dso, SSEN

    DSO innovations enabling net zero
    Jamie Bright, DSO data science & development manager, UKPN

    Scaling flexibility services with automated and performance based operational technology systems
    Ali Ahmadi, global digital grid director, EY
  4. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    In the face of the changing climate and regulatory demands for greater long-term efficiencies, utilities need to take a proactive approach to asset management rather than continue to respond reactively to bursts, leakages and failing assets. How can smart technology enable engineers to predict failures, maintain assets and ensure continued operations for consumers? Join this session to discover how water, gas and power companies are transforming asset management, saving time and money and maintaining an undisrupted service to consumers.



    Chair introduction
    Ben Hargreaves, head of content, Utility Week

    Taking a data led approach to leakage and asset management
    Justine Leadbetter, head of demand management, Water Research Centre

    Adapting whilst maintaining supply: A climate driven approach to asset management
    Shirley Robertson, head of strategic planning & sustainability, SSEN Distribution

    From reactive to proactive: how data and technology is transforming management of the gas network
    David Moon, director of investment & future energy, Cadent

    How can IoT and open standard telecoms like LoRaWAN enable smarter utilities
    Harsha Anand, global head of advisory, Enzen Group
  5. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    Mitigating cyber security risk is a priority for all major infrastructure, from telecoms to highways. infrastructure operators need to secure their assets as they embrace smart networks, sensors and digital twins which open asset owners up to new vulnerabilities. As utilities push to digitalise their assets and embrace open data, what digital security measures are necessary and required, and how is the legislative backdrop changing? Join this session to understand how to secure critical infrastructure from case studies and discover the shared responsibility for policymakers, regulators and infrastructure businesses.



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Providing insight into cyber standards and regulations
    Dr Richard Dobson, business leader – digital, Energy Systems Catapult

    T & OT – Collaborating to Protect Critical Infrastructure
    Iain Dougan, head of operational technology & cyber, SSEN Transmission

    The role of telecoms in driving resilience for utilities
    Ian Smith, head of operations support, National Grid Electricity Distribution

    Revealing key insights from delivering digital security in the utilities sector
    John Elder, cyber security director, Jacobs
22 May 2024
  1. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:
    Samp
    At a time when utilities need to optimise daily operations, sweat their asset and make strategic investment decisions, what smart tools are being utilities to gain better visibility of the network? It is vital to gain a deeper understanding of assets and networks to make informed asset management decisions which can be testing in a digital capacity.  
    Join this session to uncover novel approaches to smart asset management.  



    Chair introduction
    Ben Hargreaves, head of content, Utility Week

    Smart wires: Advanced power flow control to maximise network potential
    Xiaolin Ding, senior innovation engineer, National Grid Electricity Transmission

    NUAR: Increasing visibility of underground assets to drive efficiency in planning and project delivery
    Holger Kessler, NUAR, Geospatial Commission

    Projects and asset management: disrupting BIM with 3D scans & AI
    Stéphane Evanno, chief strategy and development officer, Samp
  2. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    As water companies prepare to deliver an unprecedented volume of work in AMP8, the need to adopt smart solutions has never been greater. Tasked with monitoring river quality upstream and downstream, reducing energy bills and operating more efficiently, where can smart water systems unlock optimised operation and automated process? Join this session to explore how water companies are investing, trailing and implementing smart solutions across their networks.



    Chair introduction
    Ruth Williams, water correspondent, Utility Week

    Minimising CSO spills through data and digitalisation
    Ally Potts, technical lead - clean rivers & seas task force, Southern Water

    Integrating third party assets into an optimised water supply network: lessons from Smarter Tanks for future optimised water supply systems
    John Rumble, senior asset manager (environmental policy & strategy), Affinity Water

    Embracing smart networks and automating operations
    Jeremy Heath, innovation manager, SES Water

    Empowering decision making and customer engagement through digitalising smart meter data
    Tim Bass, global solution manager, water, Trilliant
  3. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    As the energy smart meter rollout heads for the finish line, how will a more granular understanding of energy consumption unlock flexibility in the system? And what can water companies learn from energy as they embrace their own smart meter targets Join this session to hear the latest updates on smart metering in energy; see the potential for smart meters to unlock smart homes; and discover how water companies are embracing the technology.



    Chair introduction
    Ben Hargreaves, head of content, Utility Week

    Examining consumption patterns – and what next for smart meter data
    Scott King, smart metering benefits realisation manager, Anglian Water Services

    Using smart meter data to assist vulnerability and reduce debt
    Chris O’Donnell, head of analytics, Utilita

    The smart home and smart metering systems/Smart Meter based IoT applications
    Abidemi Olowogbemi, programme and project manager, DESNZ

    Designing a private, robust smart metering network to reduce consumer demand and curb leakage
    Tyler Simpson, vice president – global water sales, Hubbell
  4. Smart Utilities Stage

    Sponsored by:

    As demand for water and energy increases, managing the network in an efficient way is essential. With limited investment, how can digital tools, AI and automation help optimise assets and manage them in a more efficient way? Join this session to uncover new technologies and ways of working to better manage and maintain your network.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Grimwood, insights editor, Utility Week

    Optimising assets through automation, AI and digital tools
    Sam Young, practice manager, data science & AI, Energy Systems Catapult

    Network Visibility - harnessing the power of sensor technology and AI modelling
    Lora McCay, Head of Data Operations, SSEN Distribution

    Using AI and smart technology to improve asset management and water management
    Shervin Tabatabai, business analyst for safe smart systems, Anglian Water

    Sustainable Asset Management – the Proof of Value (PoV) Challenge
    Gwion Kennard, director digital engineering, AtkinsRéalis
21 May 2024
  1. Energy Flexibility Stage

    The role of retailers is evolving as market needs evolve. To understand the customers, they serve and offer a detailed level of flexibility, retailers are offering energy solutions to control more devices and understand existing devices in the home. Smart devices, home management systems and technology are essential to unlocking real time and quick energy flexibility. Uncover how you can leverage gride edge technology and low carbon solutions to enable the transition to for networks and customers.



    Chair introduction
    Lucinda Dann, features editor, Utility Week

    Adapting business models to align with the energy transition
    José Davila, director of strategy and external affairs, E.ON

    Evolving business models to assist customers with the transition to net-zero
    Ritika Wattan, head of strategy, SSE

    From tariffs to products: creating the next generation of customer offers
    Kieron Stopforth, senior manager, Octopus Energy Group
  2. Energy Flexibility Stage

    Large users of energy offer a huge opportunity for power networks to harness for flexible energy. Ensuring operations of businesses are impacted at a minimum, what new opportunities does energy flexibility provide? Three users of energy will outline how they are looking to optimise operations and embrace energy flexibility.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Grimwood, insights editor, Utility Week

    Putting end users at the heart of gas and electricity flexibility policy
    Arjan Geveke, director, EIUG

    Removing barriers and incentivising I&C customers
    Jake Miller, electric assets lead, Drax
  3. Energy Flexibility Stage

    Flexible energy markets are at a critical junction of development. Following consultations around the role of the regulator, this panel will deliberate the best way to support emerging markets, protect customers and accelerate net zero.



    Chair introduction
    Lucinda Dann, features editor, Utility Week

    Panel
    Avi Aithal, Head of open networks, Energy Networks Association

    Francis Mosley, head of enabling flexibility markets, OFGEM

    Lois Clark, ESO
  4. Energy Flexibility Stage

    To accelerate the development of flexible energy markets and encourage the participation of as many end users as possible, energy networks need to offer a variety of products. Join this session to gain insight into the new products networks will be procuring.



    Chair introduction
    Avi Aithal, Head of open networks, Energy Networks Association

    Community DSO unearthing flexibility products
    Maurice Lynch, head of system flexibility, Northern Powergrid

    BiTraDER: bilateral trading of curtailment
    Geraldine Paterson, innovation development manager, Electricity North West

    Advancing flex market platforms and processes
    Catherine Winning, flexibility markets manager, SSEN Distribution

    Net Zero flexibility vision for flexible distribution networks
    Phillipa Slater, director of asset management and operations support, National Grid Energy Distribution
  5. Energy Flexibility Stage

    Sponsored by:

    As the UK prioritises the decarbonisation of heat and domestic flexibility potential, discover how the electrification of heat and aggregating UK homes could provide an opportunity for managing grid constraint. Discover the latest updates, best practice and lessons learnt from pilots.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Lowe, Founding Director, Thermal Storage UK

    Driving active consumer participation in flexibility
    Andrew Schein, director of trials and analysis, Centre for Net Zero

    Maximising the use of local green power
    Alex Howard, head of flexibility markets, UKPN

    Crowdflex
    Elizabeth Allkins, Head of energy strategy, OVO

    Providing the latest insights from domestic heat pump flexibility trials
    Alex Jakeman, associate director, Guidehouse
22 May 2024
  1. Energy Flexibility Stage

    DNOs need to develop and enhance their existing business model to enable flexible energy, preparing the grid and prioritising stakeholder engagement is paramount to flexible energy functioning seamlessly. In this session, discover DNOs roadmaps to evolving their network.



    Chair introduction
    James Wallin, editor, Utility Week

    Delivering tomorrow’s network, today: stakeholder engagement, harnessing flexibility and directing grid investment
    Ben Godfrey, Director of Distribution System Operator, NGED

    Connecting customers and forecasting for flexibility
    Jim Cardwell, head of dso policy, Northern Powergrid

    Capturing local aspirations in strategic network development
    Sarah Pearl, net zero strategy engineer, SSEN Distribution
  2. Energy Flexibility Stage

    To accelerate flexibility markets the necessary digital infrastructure and data sharing needs to be built. How can energy companies create an accurate an efficiency digital model to understand and forecast constraint? Join this session to learn best practice on collecting data, building a digital model and operating in real time.



    Chair introduction
    Lucinda Dann, features editor, Utility Week

    Flexibility Digital Infrastructure for transparent and coordinated markets
    Nina Klein, flexibility policy expert, Ofgem

    Planning Regional Infrastructure in a Digital Environment (PRIDE)
    Liza Troshka, innovation engineer, National Grid Electricity Distribution

    Maximising opportunities for Flexibility providers through leveraging data
    Jamie Bright, DSO data science & development manager, UKPN
  3. Energy Flexibility Stage

    UK energy companies need to balance the energy system between demand and supply, with increasing renewables providing challenges and opportunities. How can we establish a whole system approach to energy flexibility? Join this session to understand how gas and electricity are integrated today, and what role hydrogen can play in the future to provide flexibility in times of peak demand or at times of low or surplus renewables.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Grimwood, insights editor, Utility Week

    Comparison of flexibility across GB energy systems
    Joseph Day, University of Birmingham

    Requirements for Flexibility to 2035
    Alex Hart, head of zero carbon operation, National Grid

    SGN – Unlocking an optimised energy ecosystem in Scotland
    Fergus Tickell, SGN
  4. Energy Flexibility Stage

    The cost-of-living crisis has dominated public debate over the last two years with utilities working to support vulnerable customers. Flexible energy provides an opportunity to empower customers to manage the affordability of their energy make savvy choices on their energy use. Learn how we can ensure customers have a positive experience with flexible energy and are protected.



    Chair introduction
    Adam John, Utility Week

    Do consumers need flexibility?
    Peter McClenaghan, director of infrastructure & sustainability, Consumer Council (for Northern Ireland)

    Making flexibility work for consumers
    Andy Sage, head of propositions & partnerships, E.ON Next

    Calling time on a passive relationship with consumers
    Nicola Wilson, OVO
21 May 2024
  1. Innovation Stage

    With demand on the gas system being distributed across all parts of the network, this session is going to hear from the different sectors that are connected to the gas grid. You’ll hear about the actions their businesses are working on today, and what options they are looking to secure in the future to achieve net zero. 



    Chair introduction
    Oliver Lancaster, chief executive, IGEM

    Industrial and commercial
    Marian Garfield, Heidelberg Materials/Hanson

    Transport
    Allan Rushforth, chief commercial officer, First Hydrogen

    Power
    Neil Filkin, technical director, Conrad Energy
  2. Innovation Stage

    Join us for a thought-provoking session chaired by Carly Perry, the Managing Director of Spring, as we delve into the future plans for the sector's centre of excellence. Together, we'll reflect on the progress we've made so far and explore Spring's plan for adding even more value to the sector in the years to come.



    Chair introduction
    Carly Perry, managing director, Spring

    Panellists
    Lauren Tyler, head of innovation, Southern Water

    Paul Gaskin, research and innovation manager, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water

    Victoria Nevin, Skewb

    Simon Ayley, Director, WRc
  3. Innovation Stage

    With insights from a panel of experts from the Heat Pump Ready programme, this session will delve into how innovations in smart and flexible technology, manufacturing and the customer journey can enable the mass rollout of heat pumps. Dr Nicola Lazenby, Energy Innovation Programme Manager for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, will chair the panel session

      



    Chair introduction
    Nicola Lazenby, Head of Built Environment Innovation, Department of Energy Security and Net Zero

    Panel
    Mark Lufkin, CPO technical director, Wondrwall

    Daniel White, market development director, MCS

    Roger Macklin, technical director, Hoare Lea

    Tom Oldfield, head of external affairs, Mixergy
  4. Innovation Stage

    The Ofwat innovation fund has encouraged a step change in the innovation maturity of the sector - particularly in the focus and structure to the creation and delivery of projects. In thinking about the fund beyond 2025, how do we encourage the sector to take the next step in its maturity?  

    Join this interactive collaborate exchange to help shape and develop innovation maturity and discuss:  
     

    · How to adopt and scale solution being developed  

    · How to encourage a culture of failing quickly and being comfortable with it  

    · How to accelerate the return on investment  

    · How to improve the delivery of projects  

    · How to demonstrate value for money for customers  



    Chair introduction
    Holly Jamieson, executive director, Challenge Works

    Panel
    Mumin Islam, Head of Innovation, South Staffordshire and Cambridge Water

    Helen Campbell, senior director for sector performance, Ofwat

    Suhayl Zulfiquar, CEO, Ofwat innovation fund judge

    Graham Lunt, Sandtech
  5. Innovation Stage

    The ever-growing skills gap and public perception of utilities creates a challenge to recruiting the future of the industry. How can we apply innovation principles to the way the water and energy companies recruit, onboard and retain talent? In this dynamic discussion, industry leaders and innovators will share insights, strategies, and case studies showcasing how utilities companies are revolutionising their approach to people management.



    Chair introduction
    Gabrielle Mandell, chief executive, Institute of Water

    Panel
    Ian Barker, vice president environment, Institute of Water

    Jason Elliott, co-founder, Get Knowledge

    Gemma Betney, head of workforce demand & resourcing, Anglian Water

    Angela Day, head of people, risk and compliance, MOSL
22 May 2024
  1. Innovation Stage

    Local authorities drive to net zero relies on strong collaboration with distribution networks and stakeholders. Local governments exhibiting on our Local Government Pavilion present case studies and updates on their local areas energy planning and more.  Join this session to learn about local decarbonisation projects and strategies to switch to low carbon heat, electrify transport and much more. 



    Chair introduction
    Andrew Wainwright, whole systems manager, SSEN

    Moving from plans to delivery in Greater Manchester
    Rory Mathews, senior policy and partnerships officer (Low Carbon), Greater Manchester Combined Authority

    Planning for Net Zero: London's approach to Local Area Energy Planning
    Andrew McMunnigall, planning lead, infrastructure, Greater London Authority

    Innovation and Local Area Energy Planning – the West Sussex approach
    Daire Casey, Energy Services Manager, West Sussex County Council

    To the Grid Edge and back again: Developing Local Area Energy Coordination (LAEC) in Oxfordshire
    Sarah Hassenpflug, Energy Systems Lead, Oxfordshire County Council
  2. Innovation Stage

    For the UK to achieve net zero targets and respond to the climate crisis, we cannot rely on efforts to reduce emissions alone, we must adopt innovations and technologies to remove carbon from the atmosphere. Join this session to discover the latest trials and projects to deploy CCS technology, lessons learnt from implementation and best practice to make CCS adoption more efficient in your business.  



    Chair introduction
    Rob Horgan, Utility Week

    Decarbonising UK industrial clusters through widescale deployment of CCS
    William Joyce, Innovate UK UKRI

    CCS for Clean Power Success
    Hannah Bronwin, Director of Business Development, SSE Thermal
  3. Innovation Stage

    How can human brilliance and AI help create a more joined up, advanced, collaborative innovation ecosystem across water, energy and other sector across the UK and beyond? How can we accelerate the pace and impact of innovation, without creating exacerbating resource constraints.



    Chair introduction
    Matt Hastings, CEO, Ideaonomy
  4. Innovation Stage

    Collaboration and engagement with innovators are essential to accelerate the pace of innovation in the energy sector. The EIC partnership is committed to proactively evolving the support available to innovators and facilitating the right partnerships. Join us to review progress in eliminating barriers to innovation, discuss the future of energy regulation, hear the latest insights from over 200 innovators, and explore what further changes are required to effect change in the sector to deliver Net Zero.



    Chair introduction
    Matthieu Michel, Operations Director, EIC

    Panel
    Luke Ames Blackaby, Head of Innovation Hub, Ofgem

    Kate Edwards, Sales and Operations Manager, Outram Research

    Luca Grella, UK Power Networks

    Iain Chirnside, Steer Energy
  5. Innovation Stage

    To support the next generation of leaders, Utility Week invite people at the beginning of their careers across utility companies and the supply chain to join this session to gain insight into career pathways and development opportunities. Hear from leaders in the industry share their career stories and meet likeminded individuals with valuable networking opportunities.  

     



    Chair introduction
    Ruth Williams, water correspondent, Utility Week

    Limitless apprenticeships: where could your career go?
    Richard Sansom, network director for the East Midlands, Cadent

    Inclusive utilities: building a diverse and well-resourced industry
    Ayisha Khurshid, strategic advisory, Aqua Consultants

    Driving meaningful change - opportunities to add social value via green careers with sustainable organisations
    Jonny Morgan, head communications, Electricity North West
21 May 2024
  1. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    Sponsored by:

    With a dedicated focus on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and hitting net zero by 2030, water companies need to tackle the process emissions released in sewage treatment. Water companies are measuring emissions and trialling innovative solutions to minimise the release of nitrous oxide, biomethane and carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. Join this session to unearth the latest innovations in monitoring and reducing process emissions and resource recovery to drive a circular economy.



    Chair introduction
    Ruth Williams, water correspondent, Utility Week

    Biorefineries and circular systems: A route towards a sustainable and resilient future, or a wasted opportunity?
    Matthew Stewart, associate director - bioresources, AtkinsRéalis

    Measuring and monitoring process emissions
    Bharani Srinamasivayam, process emissions manager - asset strategy & planning, Severn Trent

    Measuring process emissions and planning reductions
    Gordon Reid, general manager zero emissions, Scottish Water

    Recovering Ammonia from Northumbrian Water’s wastewater treatment processes
    Mark Moulden, Technical Director, Organics on behalf of Northumbrian Water

    Severn Trent’s Net Zero Hub
    Peter Vale, carbon architect, asset intelligence & innovation, Severn Trent
  2. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    What role will hydrogen play in a net zero future? While its use in domestic heating remains a matter for government policy, it is increasingly expected to have a role in fuelling heavy industry and transport. Join this session to discover the latest trials to roll out hydrogen for heavy industry and transport and future scaling opportunities.



    Chair introduction
    Oliver Lancaster, chief executive, IGEM

    The UK’s strategy for hydrogen in industry and transport
    Tom Mowle, head of hydrogen demand, DESNZ

    Resourcing heavy industry and transport with hydrogen
    Dr Danielle Stewart, project director, project union, National Gas

    Infrastructure requirements to support the development of a hydrogen economy
    Alastair Scott, future of energy project manager, SGN
  3. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    As the climate crisis deepens and biodiversity becomes a priority, finding alternatives to grey infrastructure is critical. How can industry, regulators and innovators work together to enable the adoption of nature-based solutions? Join this session to unearth how utilities are looking at the whole catchment and engaging in new partnerships to introduce more nature-based solutions.



    Chair introduction
    Ruth Williams, water correspondent, Utility Week

    How can we better prepare to design, build and operate nature based solutions
    Dr Gabriela Dotro, Senior Research Fellow, Chair of the CWA, Cranfield University

    Nature based solutions – environmental regulation, policies and frameworks to support delivery
    Clare Warburton, sustainable development deputy director, Natural England

    Kat Broadhead, principal for water, Natural England

    Mainstreaming nature based solutions to deliver greater value
    Amina Aboobakar, director of strategic development and stewardship, Rivers Trust
  4. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    Sponsored by:

    Extreme weather is putting an increasing strain on aging critical national infrastructure and utilities must adapt their networks to withstand more frequent storms, extreme heat and increased flooding. Utilities need to prepare existing water, gas, electricity and telecoms networks to ensure resilience and security of supply to customers as a priority. Simultaneously, future assets need to be designed to realistic climate models and predictions.



    Chair introduction
    Rob Horgan, Utility Week

    Preparing critical national infrastructure for the future
    Clara Wikforss, policy adviser, National Infrastructure Commission

    CREDO: using digital twins to manage extreme heat
    Tom Burgoyne, asset systems strategist, Anglian Water

    Using rainfall data and forecasts to predict and prevent sewer flooding
    Mike Everest, MAP director, Metasphere Ltd
  5. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    Accounting and reporting scope 3 emissions is a critical step in the ‘race to zero’. Utility companies need to collaborate with their supply chain partners and be prepared to work in new ways to uncover innovations that will drive down emissions across the supply chain. Join this session to learn how utilities are managing and minimising scope 3 emissions and shifting to a circular economy.



    Chair introduction
    Lucinda Dann, features editor, Utility Week

    Decarbonisation of concrete
    Rachel Skinner, chair infrastructure carbon workstream, Infrastructure Client Group and Past President, ICE

    Demystifying the Whole Life Carbon Assessment and what this means for utility infrastructure
    Athina Papakosta, Sustainability Lead - Carbon & Resource efficiency, Skanska Costain STRABAG JV; RICS WLCA PS co-author

    Innovative infrastructure: reducing carbon in materials
    Rossella Nicolin, head of sustainability for Europe, Laing O’Rourke
22 May 2024
  1. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    Sponsored by:

    Water companies are under public, regulatory and governmental scrutiny to reduce spills from storm overflows. Discover the latest work which is piloting novel and nature based interventions to understand what is effective and efficient at reducing storm overflow use and minimising harm before the sector gears up for a record AMP8 investment in this area.



    Chair and overview: Significantly reducing storm overflows through our novel pathfinder programme featuring multiple case studies
    Dr Nick Mills, clean rivers & seas task force, Southern Water

    The Welsh perspective on delivering SuDS featuring Llanelli case study
    Fergus O'Brien, wastewater & environment services manager, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water

    Realtime catchment control - concept through to adoption
    Katherine Dobbs, strategic optimisation manager, Anglian Water

    Operationalising your assets to increase hydraulic capacity
    Mike Williamson, managing director, water division, Adler and Allan
  2. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    The UK is facing a connections crisis with requests for new power connections and capacity at an all-time high. Following Nick Winser’s review into accelerating the rate of low-carbon connections, the UK is on the cusp of change – but what form will it take, and what does it mean for your business? Join this session to discover how policy is changing to enable connections reform – and how your business needs to prepare.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Grimwood, insights editor, Utility Week

    Connections reform update
    Robyn Jenkins, head of connections change delivery, ESO

    Solving the connections challenge – beyond the contract
    Gareth Hislop, head of market development and commercial operations, Scottish Power Energy Networks

    Accelerating capacity and connections
    Ruth Shaw, customer & stakeholder experience manager, National Grid Electricity Transmission
  3. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    As utilities encourage customers to value resources and remain mindful of consumption, they must lead from the front, by detecting, preventing and repairing leaks across their networks. Water and gas companies are seeking to adopt a proactive and preventative asset management approach while responding rapidly to bursts and leaks to ensure maximum safety and network efficiency. Join this session to uncover the latest innovations and technologies being trialled and adopted by water and gas companies as they minimise leakage and the associated carbon cost.



    Chair introduction
    Ruth Williams, water correspondent, Utility Week

    Monitoring the network and detecting leaks
    Jeremy Heath, innovation manager, SES Water

    Leakage analytics and proactive maintenance
    Chris Rison, head of London investment planning office, Cadent

    Pipebots for managing and repairing pipe networks
    Joby Boxall, professor of water infrastructure engineering, University of Sheffield
  4. Sustainable Infrastructure Stage

    Sponsored by:

    The UK is entering a decade of unprecedented infrastructure delivery as utilities seek to upgrade the grid, increase capacity and improve river quality. To deliver the scale of works required the whole supply chain needs to collaborate and explore innovative ways of working to maximise resources and minimise carbon. How can we deliver infrastructure efficiently and at speed? Join this session to discover the latest innovations in infrastructure delivery and learn how technology is changing the game.



    Chair introduction
    Lucinda Dann, features editor, Utility Week

    Standardising design assets to leverage building efficiencies in the supply chain
    Beth Warnock, senior power systems engineer, Energy Systems Catapult

    Case study: The Havant Thicket Reservoir
    Ruari Maybank, Project Director, Portsmouth Water Ltd

    Using modern design techniques to reduce embedded carbon – a joint industry and academic case study
    Michael Brown, professor of geotechnical engineering, University of Dundee

    Reimagining capital investment in infrastructure to improve productivity, manage stakeholders and deploy faster
    Nitesh Alagh, business lead - digital engineering, sustainability and emerging tech, Severn Trent Water (on behalf of Sensat)
21 May 2024
  1. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Consumers will play a pivotal role in the UK’s shift to renewable energy, adopting low carbon technology in their homes and taking an active role in shifting their demand. Retailers and networks need to educate, communicate and incentivise customers to embrace LCT in their homes. At a time of macro economic change and wavering political commitments, the industry must lead the charge on rolling out LCT at scale to deliver a decarbonised society. Join this session to find out how.



    Chair introduction
    Adam John, Utility Week

    Changing the narrative – how to demystify low carbon solutions
    Chris Connolly, business development manager, E.ON

    Creating an experience: ensuring Net Zero living isn't as scary as it sounds
    Hannah Thompson, customer relations and communications specialist, Sero Life

    Ensuring a just transition and supporting the roll out of LCT to vulnerable customers
    Archie Lasseter, head of sustainability, Utilita&Utilita Energy&Utilita Energy,&utilita
  2. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Sponsored by:

    In the last 18 months utilities have borne the brunt of public, media and government ire over soaring bills, river quality, executive pay and shareholder rewards. The industry urgently needs to rebuild customer trust and repair its reputation if it’s to influence consumer behaviour, attract talent to the industry and ultimately deliver the level of infrastructure projects required. Join this session to learn from pioneering projects that are rebuilding trust and discover best practice in stakeholder engagement.



    Chair introduction
    Adam John, Utility Week

    The Great Grid Upgrade – working with communities
    Alexandra Kaufman, director of land, planning and external affairs, strategic infrastructure, National Grid Electricity Transmission

    Resetting the relationship with customers
    Ashley Marshman, head of customer service, Southern Water

    Embracing technology to improve customer convenience and trust
    Kapil Singhal, co-founder and CEO, Vyntelligence
  3. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Sponsored by:

    Utilities are racing to achieve digital readiness, while facing an ever-growing skills crisis and demands from the regulator to deliver more for less. How can energy and water businesses embrace operational change, drive process efficiency and ensure digital readiness? Join this session to explore the innovations available to utilities as they seek to modernise their workforce and operations.



    Chair introduction
    Ben Hargreaves, head of content, Utility Week

    Data science skills gap – how to build data capabilities
    Dr Stephen Haben, senior data science consultant, Energy Systems Catapult

    Upskilling to establish a digitally-enabled workforce
    Liz Nash, learning & development manager, UKPN

    Mitigating the skills gap through operational change – Anglian’s approach to the Strategic Pipeline Delivery
    Matt Walker, strategic programmes manager, Anglian Water

    Closing the skills gap with AI: a true story
    Scott Broadley, director of strategic projects, FYLD
  4. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Heat remains the biggest single source of carbon emissions for the UK, making its decarbonisation critical to the net zero journey. The government has set out ambitious plans for the rollout of heat pumps, but the reality is that just a fraction of the targeted number are being installed each year. What is the future of low carbon heat, and when will the tipping point for mass take-up arrive? Join this session to learn how to engage consumers, improve consumer understanding and accelerate the decarbonisation of heat.



    Chair introduction
    Tom Grimwood, insights editor, Utility Week

    Facilitating the electrification of heat
    Clothilde Cantegreil, Head of Strategy, SSEN Distribution

    Innovating to decarbonise vertical communities
    Loukas Douvaras, innovation project lead, UK Power Networks

    Unlocking flexibility from residential low carbon heat
    Lisa Bunting, British Gas
  5. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Following the second winter of the cost-of-living crisis, the industry is searching for the best tools to support customers from a range of backgrounds. Can pre-payment meters remain a viable tool following their reputational damage? What is the best form of social tariff, and what role can innovations in billing play? Join this session to understand the tools available to utilities to support customer payments.



    Chair introduction
    Adam John, Utility Week

    Mechanisms for rolling out social tariffs and prepayment meters
    Alexander Belsham Harris, Citizens Advice

    Vulnerability, debt and the role of suppliers
    Louise Walsh, chief customer contact officer, Utilita

    Innovative ways to serve vulnerable customers – new approaches to billing and service
    Dr Rose Chard, low income and vulnerable consumer practice manager, Energy Systems Catapult
22 May 2024
  1. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Sponsored by:

    As the cost-of-living crisis extends into its third year, the UK’s energy and water business continue to face extreme volumes of customer contacts. How can they ensure the best experience for every customer, no matter their preferred channel; and deploy innovation to unlock efficiencies? Join this session to discover how data and digitalisation can change the game, improving business processes and the end user experience.



    Chair introduction
    Adam John, Utility Week

    How businesses can utilise emerging technology to complement a human-focused approach
    Jo Causon, chief executive, Institute of Customer Service

    Real world AI: how artificial intelligence is reducing costs and improving customer outcomes
    Alison Jaap, vice president care, OVO

    Performance Excellence: bringing colleagues together to continually improve ways of working
    Paul Parry, head of talent and organisational development, Yorkshire Water

    Business Stream case study: transforming customer experience in a digital era
    Ross Kittlety, Strategy Director, Paragon
  2. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    Customers have suffered through two winters of high energy prices and now face increased water bills – meaning utilities must work harder than ever to identify, support and communicate with vulnerable customers. Utilities know they have a responsibility to ensure nobody is left behind as they decarbonise, roll out low carbon solutions and drive the sustainability agenda – join this session to find out how. 



    Chair introduction
    Adam John, Utility Week

    Identifying, understanding and classifying consumers to tailor support
    Sam Loukes, head of customer inclusion, Electricity North West

    Ofwat Innovation Funded Support for All: cross sector data sharing – outcomes and update
    Helen Patterson, customer manager, Northumbrian Water

    Using data and innovation to support vulnerable customers
    Farina Farrier, social sustainability strategy and programme manager, UKPN
  3. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    As utilities prepare for net zero, they face one of their biggest challenges yet. Influencing consumer behaviour and helping customers to consume less is a critical step on the journey to net zero. How can utilities showcase the benefits of a reduction in consumption when encouraging customers to change their behaviours? The industry must work together to discover ways to help consumers change their behaviour – join this session to hear from pioneering industry projects.



    Chair introduction
    Katy King, deputy director, Nesta

    Power Ups and Greener Days – innovative pilot projects helping customers to change behaviours
    Vania Milkova, flexibility delivery manager, Octopus Energy

    Understanding how water is valued in different faiths, cultures and ethnicities to minimise use
    Mumin Islam, Head of Innovation, South Staffordshire and Cambridge Water

    Ofwat ‘Water Efficiency Fund’ accelerating action on behaviour change
    Jonathan Dennis, principal, RAPID and environmental planning, Ofwat
  4. Customer, Culture and Workforce Stage

    To achieve net zero targets, the existing housing stock needs to adopt low carbon technology, embrace water efficiency solutions and leverage energy efficiency measures. Installers, utilities and construction and engineering companies need to come together to deliver low carbon homes and encourage customers to take an active role in a low carbon lifestyle.



    Chair introduction
    Rob Horgan, Utility Week

    Understanding the size of the challenge and opportunities for scaling up net zero housing retrofit
    Chris Friedler, ADE

    When is the right time to retrofit a property?
    Dan Hopcroft, Zero Carbon Homes Director, EDF

    Explaining the low carbon options for different types of housing stock – what can we learn about retrofit
    David Lynch, strategy manager – energy systems transition, Northern Gas Networks

    Working with customers to scale retrofit
    Cerys Williams, finance partnerships manager, Sero

"There were many interesting things to discover at the event. The talks gave a fascinating insight into issues facing the industry, how they are dealt with and what the future looks like. For someone looking to expand their horizons, it's definitely worth a visit. Utility Week Live is also a very good place to network and meet new people from an array of different companies"

- UWL23 Visitor