Energy Assets Networks and Pipelines (EAN/EAP), which operates final mile electricity and gas networks, has 
recruited Donna Townsend as Analyst Operations Manager to develop and implement operational strategies driven by regulatory change in the energy market.
Townsend joins the business with over 17 years’ experience in the independent energy network sector – a background which saw her actively involved in industry governance having managed the accreditation and market entry of one of the first licensed IDNOs. She was also the first IDNO representative to chair the Distribution Connection and Use of System Agreement (DCUSA) Panel.
Townsend said, “There is a huge programme of regulatory change currently underway in the energy market, looking at areas such as the Faster Switching and Market-wide Half Hourly Settlement programmes, and the integration and control of embedded generation and battery storage.
“All of these changes impact day-to-day operations for network operators. Using my industry knowledge, I am looking forward to helping Energy Assets Networks and Pipelines successfully navigate these and future complexities across its multi-utility operations so that our customers receive a class-leading service.”
Welcoming her appointment, Jayson Whitaker, managing director of EAN/EAP, commented: “The pace of regulatory change in the energy market is quickening in step with central government’s ambitions to deliver lower carbon energy networks and to introduce more competition into the sector.
“Donna’s expertise both in monitoring and assessing the impact of regulatory change in this market and in developing the internal systems that satisfy operational efficiency and statutory compliance will play an important role in strengthening our capabilities in support of our ambitious growth plans.”
Aside from her role at EAN/EAP, Townsend will also be closely involved with, and contributing to, the work of the Independent Networks Association (INA), which represents independent energy network operators, on regulation governing the utilities connection market.