Managing offshore electricity networks
About
The IET South Yorkshire Local Network is delighted to announce an engaging evening lecture by Ian Naylor, an accomplished engineer and Director/Principal Consultant at Threepwood Consulting Ltd.
This event, held at The University of Sheffield, will explore the technical, operational, and compliance aspects of managing Offshore Transmission Owner (OFTO) assets—an essential component in connecting offshore renewable generation to the UK’s onshore grid.
Drawing on his experience managing three OFTOs, Ian will discuss the unique challenges of operating and maintaining offshore electrical networks in line with legislation, standards, and industry codes of practice. His presentation will address both the technical interfaces and the strategic challenges faced in achieving the UK Government’s offshore energy targets.
The lecture will include:
• The relationship between National Grid and offshore generation interfaces
• Design and maintenance of onshore and offshore substations
• Subsea cable systems and their reliability challenges
• Policy development and compliance for offshore electricity networks
• Equipment specifications – transformers, switchgear, and transmission cables
• Meeting the UK’s renewable energy expansion and carbon reduction goals
2
Continuing Professional Development
This event can contribute towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours as part of the IET's CPD monitoring scheme.
18 Nov 2025
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Organiser
- South Yorkshire Local Network
Speakers
Ian Naylor
Director/Principal Consultant - Threepwood Consulting Ltd
Ian Naylor is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) with an extensive career in electrical engineering and consulting. At Threepwood Consulting, he currently oversees multiple OFTO operations, ensuring compliance and reliability across offshore transmission assets.
Previously, at the Electricity Association, Ian developed the National Equipment Defect Scheme, a pioneering initiative to analyse and mitigate equipment failure modes across the electrical sector. During his decade at EA Technology, he led major international projects supporting utilities, regulators, and industrial clients in developing robust electrical infrastructure systems.
A resident of South Yorkshire, Ian is also an avid mountain walker, cricketer, and skier. Alongside a close friend, he recently completed the Pennine Way, raising over £7,500 for Dementia UK.
Programme
18:00 - registration, refreshments and networking
18:30 - lecture starts
20:00 - evening ends