The National Skills Academy for Power welcomes two new appointments to the Smart Metering Network Group (SMNG), Steve Brand (Lowri Beck) as Chair, and Kim-Marie Mortimer (OVO Energy) as Deputy Chair.
Steve brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked in the sector for over 40 years. He was the technical lead for the first competitive metering business liaising with the
Kim-Marie has extensive knowledge and understanding of metering/smart metering regulation and industry policy with the inclusion of distribution networks, SMICOP, smart communications technology and DCC. With a proven competency in the implementation and maintenance of MOCOPA / NICEIC electrical and gas qualifications, assessments and auditing, alongside implementation of new smart technology and communications.
Stephen Barrett, Head of the National Skills Academy for Power, said: “We are delighted to announce two new appointments to the Smart Metering Network Group following our invitation to all Members for nominees for both positions. As such, I’d like to welcome Steve as Chair and Kim-Marie as Deputy Chair at this important time in the group’s evolution. The decarbonisation agenda and ever expanding Smart infrastructure will require new skills and indeed reskilling to ensure future targets are achieved. With Steve and Kim-Marie’s support I’m sure the group will continue to build on its excellent progress, thus enabling continued success and evolution of Smart training, standards and quality.”
Steve Brand, Chair of SMNG, said: “I am pleased to be nominated as the next Chair of the SMNG along with the support from Kim-Marie as the Deputy Chair. We are getting closer to the end of any major amendments to SMART metering and it is now time to look forward and organise workshops on what training gaps do we have in future technologies as we move into a reduced carbon environment. There are similarities between metering and new energy solutions in that we need either new or actual activity focused training so that we can provide our employees with the skills and knowledge within reasonable timelines and costs. Safety should always be at the forefront of any work/training activity and I feel we have the right people in our network to ensure that it is maintained in any new programmes that will be developed.”
Kim-Marie Mortimer, Deputy Chair of SMNG, said: “I am delighted and excited to be able to contribute towards the continued success of the group, I feel that I can add a fresh approach to the ways of thinking within the group to enable us to challenge ourselves and progress forwards but not only with the focus on the smart metering arena but looking beyond this towards smart grids, energy storage and electric vehicle charge points focusing on our clean energy targets and how as an industry we are required to adapt and deliver these. I am very much looking forward to working alongside Steve Brand and supporting him in his role of chair.”
The National Skills Academy for Power would like to take this opportunity to welcome both Steve and Kim, as the new Chair and Deputy Chair of the SMNG, and we look forward to the value contributions they both will bring.
Find Out More
To find out more about the Smart Metering Network Group, click here.
To find out more about how to join, please contact Lucy Ritchie, Client Manager by phone on 07850 203755 or email lucy.ritchie@euskills.co.uk.