National Grid and Connectr’s partnership shortlisted for Utility Week Award

The annual ESG award recognises utilities that are ‘going beyond regulatory criteria’ and demonstrating their responsibilities towards the environment and local residents in the communities in which they operate.

Since 2020, National Grid has partnered with Connectr, as part of the London Power Tunnels project, a £1 billion investment to rewire South London with 32.5 km of deep underground tunnels. The programme aims to address social mobility challenges, combat STEM skills shortages, and provide opportunities for students from underrepresented communities in South London.

The programme's approach involves the establishment of partner schools in each borough and the provision of STEM workshops for students across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5. Additionally it also offers career talks, insights, and work experience opportunities, including dedicated sessions for women to promote gender diversity.

In the fourth year of the initiative, the partnership not only surpassed ts target for the fourth consecutive year but also achieved a remarkable 33,112 student interactions. This achievement has elevated the total number of student interactions to nearly 120,000 since the programme's inception, surpassing the initial 5-year target of 100,000, ahead of schedule.

Figures from our fourth year update highlight the success of the programme based on student insights and aspirations:

• 66% of participants agreed that the in-school and on-site events inspired them to consider a career at National Grid
• 71% stated that the events increased their likelihood of pursuing a career in the industry
• 68% reported a better understanding of the skills needed to pursue a career in STEM or at National Grid

Looking ahead to 2025, the project will continue to support students in South London, with plans to deepen engagement with National Grid's Early Careers division to provide additional work experience opportunities.