Renew strengthens power division with acquisition of EDES

Engineering services group Renew Holdings has expanded its presence in the UK energy sector through the acquisition of Electricity Distribution Engineering Services (EDES), a specialist in high-voltage network design.

The deal, worth up to £9 million, is expected to enhance the capabilities of Renew’s Excalon division as demand continues to grow across the electricity transmission and distribution market.

EDES specialises in the design of overhead and underground electricity infrastructure and has built a strong reputation within the regulated utilities sector since being established in 2010 by three former electrical engineers from United Utilities and Norweb.

Following the acquisition, EDES will operate alongside Renew-owned businesses Emerald Power and PWR-X, strengthening Excalon’s ability to deliver end-to-end services across major power infrastructure projects — from initial network design through to construction and delivery.

Renew said the move aligns with increasing levels of investment being committed across the UK electricity network under the RIIO-2 regulatory framework, where industry spending is expected to reach between £50 billion and £60 billion.

The company has agreed an initial payment of £6.5 million, funded through existing banking facilities, with an additional £2.5 million linked to future performance targets and the continued involvement of the vendors within the business.

Renew added that it remains in a strong financial position and continues to review further acquisition opportunities as part of its long-term growth strategy.

Commenting on the deal, chief executive Paul Scott described the acquisition as a strong strategic fit that would further reinforce Renew’s established position within the regulated energy infrastructure market.