Power company gives 9,000 young people an electricity future
Social mobility leaders have praised a power company for actively supporting communities and especially people who have historically been overlooked, in areas with few opportunities.
A new report ‘Breaking Down Barriers’ launched in the run up to Social Mobility Day (June 12) reveals UK Power Networks has inspired nearly 9,000 young people to consider careers in energy over the past three years, and achieved 94% retention rate for apprentices.
The report also found that the firm supported 100,000 customers in 2023/24 to ensure nobody is left behind in the UK’s transition to Net Zero and delivered £4.35million worth of social value.
The report also contains recommendations about how the company can now build on its positive projects for the future, and said the firm’s ‘deep STEM footprint’ and award-winning apprenticeships ‘offer a foundation for systemic talent pipeline development, across the areas it serves’ (London, East and South East)
Basil Scarsella, CEO of UK Power Networks, said:
“This report showcases how our company is committed to breaking down barriers in the communities we serve. We remain focused on not only powering the South East England, the East of England and London but empowering its people.”
Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of The Purpose Coalition and former Education Secretary, said:
“Through our work with UK Power Networks I’ve seen how it embodies a purpose-led business. It is opening doors to people from all backgrounds, helping them find their place in the energy transition.”
Notes to editors:
To read the full report go to https://www.purpose-coalition.org/impact-reports/ukpowernetworks2025
UK Power Networks owns and runs the cables and substations which deliver electricity from the national grid to 8.5 million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England, serving approximately 20 million people.
As the country’s biggest electricity distributor, it has invested £8 billion in its electricity networks since 2011, focusing on safety, network reliability, sustainability and affordability by caring for vulnerable customers, keeping costs low and helping to enable decarbonisation. It is also a founder member of the Levelling up Coalition, and number one on the UK Inclusive Companies list, and UK Employer of the Year (Platinum - Investors In People).
If you have an issue with your power, there are many ways to get in touch including freephone 105 and @UKPowerNetworks
