Why maintenance matters… with Enspec’s Director of Site Services

Tony Cook oversees maintenance, commissioning and surveys and is entering his 18th year of employment with Enspec. In a sit down chat he reveals why achieving peace of mind and seamless efficiency for customers are the driving forces behind a growing department

You’re fast approaching two decades with Enspec Tony. How did it all start?

That’s right, I’ve been with Enspec for 17 years, having joined in 2007 on my return from travelling. I started here in Washington on the shop floor. There was me and two other people. My role evolved from the shop floor to ordering parts and components. I then pursued a management degree and later became a general manager at the site. Now I’m Enspec’s Director of Site Services, overseeing maintenance, commissioning and surveys.

Can you tell us more about current maintenance and site services operations?

My role is quite varied. Enspec’s maintenance covers high (up to 33,000 volts) and low (415 volts) voltage systems, with contracts ranging from three to five years. Most maintenance is carried out on Enspec’s own equipment but we also do lots of customers’ equipment too.

How important is team collaboration across the company?

Very. One field engineer Duncan has been with us for 22 years and I work very closely with him. Working closely with Enspec’s consultancy department to handle data and produce reports is also crucial. As is working with the manufacturing department, helping with pricing and commissioning after equipment shipment. Enpec is actively recruiting another field engineer to support the maintenance team too.

Can you discuss any projects of note at present?

We have ongoing projects with companies like Scottish Power, SSE, and EDF, including a three-year maintenance contract with Scottish Power. There’s also a maintenance contract with Alvance, an aluminium smelter company, repeat work in the LV maintenance area and plenty more.

Are there any particular trends you are seeing at the moment?

There is certainly an increase in activity in the industry, with many generation sites projects (solar, wind and battery storage )in the pipeline. The importance of selling maintenance services, especially for larger equipment, can’t be underestimated. Ultimately I see great potential for rapid growth, especially with the ever-increasing projects in the renewable energy sector.

Why is maintenance and site services so vital?

Without preventative maintenance to ensure equipment quality and longevity you cannot do much. It’s incredibly important and done right, saves huge amounts of money and time. Functionality is what it boils down to for customers and then comes peace of mind.

What does future growth look like within Enspec’s site services?

Our plan to sell maintenance services at the sales point is a new initiative and one we think will be a success. Like any sector or sub-sector there is a competitive nature within the industry but we have a very niche focus and believe 100% in the services we provide. Our site services department focuses on solutions, including the commissioning and maintenance of reactive compensation equipment, harmonic filters, and many others. Scheduling time for maintenance to prevent equipment failures takes away that financial risk for clients. Otherwise you end up with equipment that is not operating correctly.