Celebrating Excellence and Innovation at the AMPS Awards 2024
The annual AMPS Awards for Excellence 2024, organised by the Association of Manufacturers and Suppliers of Power Systems (AMPS), turned the historic De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms into a showcase of industry brilliance.
This prestigious event, brimming with excitement, recognised companies and individuals who are driving forward innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth in the power sector. Under the spotlight were initiatives that blend technology, sustainability, and future-forward thinking—an electrifying evening indeed.
The awards celebrated not just the companies, but the collective commitment of the entire sector to progress and the drive toward a sustainable future. David Oates, AMPS Director General, captured the evening’s sentiment: “This evening has been a fantastic showcase of the innovation, talent, and investment that makes our industry so strong.”
Let’s dive into the night’s key highlights, from ground-breaking projects to the industry’s investment in nurturing talent.
Apprenticeship Programme of the Year
In a category that captured the spirit of future-proofing the industry, the Apprenticeship Programme of the Year, sponsored by Generator Power Ltd, saw an impressive array of entries. With the power industry evolving at breakneck speed, investing in young talent is more crucial than ever. This newly introduced category did not disappoint, bringing to light exemplary programmes aimed at attracting, developing, and retaining the next generation of skilled professionals.
Winner: WB Power Services Ltd
WB Power Services took the top spot for their comprehensive apprenticeship programme, which the judges found both innovative and impactful. The company’s commitment to excellence is exemplified by their cutting-edge training centre in Heanor—one of only two such facilities in Europe.
Here, apprentices gain hands-on experience, supported by MOET electromechanical qualifications and access to the latest technology. What really set WB Power apart was their emphasis on inclusivity and practical skills development, ensuring apprentices leave fully prepared to contribute to the industry.
Notably, many graduates of the programme have advanced into leadership positions, proving its long-term value. WB Power’s dedication isn’t just about training; it’s about creating future leaders.
Highly Commended: Crestchic Loadbanks and Dale Power were also recognised for their outstanding contributions to skills development, reinforcing the sector’s commitment to nurturing new talent.
Strategic Growth Amid Industry Challenges
A critical focus of the awards was recognising companies that have achieved significant growth by adapting to technological changes and sustainability demands. The Business Growth and Strategy Award, sponsored by WB Power Services, celebrated forward-thinking approaches to expansion.
Winner: Wernick Group
Wernick Group stole the show with its strategic growth plan, which expanded their workforce to 63 staff across six hubs and drove revenue from £16 million in 2023 to a projected £20 million in 2024. The secret behind this growth? A combination of strategic investments totalling £10.8 million in technology like PP200 Flybrids, battery storage solutions, and Stage V generators. On top of that, Wernick’s £2.1 million investment in eco-friendly innovations, such as SolarFrames, underscores their commitment to reducing environmental impact.
In addition to reducing generator runtime by 83% on major projects, they’ve successfully slashed emissions, aligning with broader net-zero goals. Strategic acquisitions and restructuring have allowed Wernick to cement their status as a leader in sustainable growth.
Pioneering the Path to Net Zero
With the drive toward net-zero emissions taking centre stage in the power industry, the Energy and Sustainability Award, sponsored by Crestchic Ltd, highlighted companies making strides in green innovation.
Winner: Atlas Copco Power Technique UK & Ireland
Atlas Copco emerged as the clear leader in this category, thanks to their integrated approach to sustainability. Their eco-friendly Technology House in Hemel Hempstead exemplifies their commitment to energy efficiency. Additionally, their portable solar containers (ZSC 100-400 series) are revolutionising how off-grid sites are powered. These plug-and-play solutions not only reduce emissions but also provide cost-effective alternatives to traditional energy sources.
Their dedication to reducing their carbon footprint while driving operational efficiencies makes Atlas Copco a model for how the industry can balance sustainability with profitability.
Leading in Engineering Innovation
Innovation is the engine that drives the power sector forward. The Environmental Product of the Year, sponsored by Allam Power, celebrated companies that have created sustainable engineering solutions to meet today’s environmental challenges.
Winner: Generator Power Ltd
Generator Power’s solar PV system, coupled with battery energy storage, stood out as an industry game-changer. Specifically designed for remote telecom sites, this system combines solar panels, energy storage, and a backup HVO-fuelled generator. This innovative solution not only reduces emissions by an impressive 7,500 kg per site monthly but also cuts down operational costs and maintenance efforts.
Project of the Year
Complex projects that overcome unique challenges often lay the groundwork for the industry’s future. The Project of the Year Award, sponsored by Power Control & Automation Solutions Ltd, shone a light on projects that pushed the envelope in terms of design, sustainability, and community impact.
Winner: Clarke Energy
Clarke Energy took home the trophy for their ground-breaking greenhouse project in Streatham, designed to produce 10% of Britain’s cucumbers. At its heart is the UK’s largest water source heat pump system, reducing emissions and reliance on imports. Innovations like rainwater harvesting, CHP units, and energy-efficient lighting are set to transform not just agriculture but also the local community through job creation.
AMPS Member Company of the Year
The most prestigious category, AMPS Member Company of the Year, sponsored by IPU Group Ltd, recognised outstanding commitment to the AMPS community and industry leadership.
Winner: Crestchic Loadbanks
Crestchic’s remarkable achievements in 2024, including doubling their manufacturing output and surpassing previous revenue records, earned them this prestigious recognition. The judges were particularly impressed by their latest data centre-specific load banks and refurbishment initiatives, which not only enhance product lifecycles but also support sustainability. As a founding member of AMPS, Crestchic exemplifies collaboration and leadership.
A Bright Future for the Power Industry
The AMPS Awards for Excellence 2024 brought the industry together in a celebration of resilience, innovation, and a collective drive towards a greener future.
With companies like Atlas Copco, Clarke Energy, and WB Power Services leading the charge, the power sector is well-positioned to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
As Louise Hazel, AMPS Chair, aptly put it: “The industry’s shared drive to innovate and collaborate is the cornerstone of a sustainable future.”
