Utility Infrastructure and Metering Management at Preston Residential Refurbishment
Charles House in Preston has been transformed from a former tax office into a contemporary residential dwelling. During the early construction phase, the developer contracted WilSon Energy to manage the project’s utility infrastructure. Electricity and water supplies were required for each apartment and the landlord’s areas. In this instance, the electricity network was via a traditional utility supply route, while the water was created as a private network.
Charles House is a well-known building located in an exceptionally attractive city centre location. The prominent five-storey office building previously served as Preston’s oldest tax office, having been occupied by HM Revenue & Customs for many years.
Boasting almost 40,000 square feet of space on Winckley Square, the property was being transformed into 70 stylish one and two-bedroom apartments. Built to the highest specifications for both private sale and those looking to rent, the development is a step towards encouraging city centre living and satisfying demand for high-end homes from first-time buyers and professionals.
Overcoming challenges for a versatile energy supply
Our electrical team installed Bemco panels and 70-meter boards with isolators ready for the utility supply company to fit fiscal electricity meters. This part of the project was particularly challenging due to very tight space constraints in the property’s basement area.
Each customer has been allocated an MPAN and will be billed on a credit basis by their chosen energy supplier. Each property is also equipped with an instantaneous water heater and electric panel radiators for the heating.
A flexible, tech-led approach to water metering and billing
The property management company (PMCO) will be billed and will discharge the utility invoice from the supplier for a bulk commercial meter. The installation of WilSon’s water sub-metering network, using billing standard MID & WRAS-approved meters, allows residents to be charged based on their actual consumption. WilSon Energy’s specialist billing and bureau team will carry out the billing service, collecting funds and managing accounts on behalf of the PMCO.
Consumers using WilSon’s on-line portal can use various payment methods, including mobile phone, at any Payzone shop, or via their bureau team. Each water meter communicates wirelessly to a central data concentrator installed in the building and connected to WilSon’s back-office system.
For more information about WilSon Energy’s utility metering and billing and bureau services, visit: www.wilsonenergy.co.uk or contact enquiries@wilsonenergy.co.uk.
