Green Frog Connect (GFC), an Independent Connections Provider (ICP) based within North Somerset's Hive business development centre, has announced that it has won contracts to build 275MW of new gas fired power stations throughout the UK. The news comes hot on the heels of the company having been named one of Britain's fastest growing firms in theSunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 league table.
GFC was ranked 18th in the prestigious list, released each December, which charts companies with the fastest-growing sales over their latest three years. It has grown its turnover from £1.4 million in 2013/14 to £20.5 million in 2015/16.
The company specialises in designing and building high-voltage connections to the national electricity grid and building gas-fired power stations which provide reserve power and, in line with the Government's policy within the Capacity Market, help ensure that, in the event of blackouts, consumers can continue to access reliable electricity supplies at affordable prices. GFC also assists with electricity connections for all renewable energy projects, whether wind farm, solar park, energy from waste or anaerobic digestion.
Green Frog Connect was founded in 2012 by Richard Shearer from North Somerset and Tom Drake from Sheffield, who jointly share 40 years' industry experience. Recognising there were very few ICPs who could assist with the high voltage connections needed by clients whilst staying within the timescales and commitments demanded by the National Grid, and, having seen existing industry consultants unable to meet deadlines, the business partners set out to offer these services to clients, safely, reliably and cost-effectively.
The business covers the entire UK and, as well as being headquartered at The Hive in the Junction 21 Enterprise Area of Weston-super-Mare, has offices in Coleshill in Warwickshire and Sheffield.
Now the company and its 25 retained staff are celebrating the news of its exciting latest new build work.
"We are proud to be heavily involved in supporting energy providers in delivering against current capacity market obligations, alongside our ongoing work for major solar and wind developer clients." says Green Frog Connect's joint founder and managing director Richard Shearer. "GFC works as Principal Contractor, delivering a complete turnkey solution for the development of power stations, with support within the group including land development, site civils construction, generator installation and grid connection, all designed, project managed and built with in-house resources as a one-stop solution.
"In this sector reliability is key, so the reputation we have established in completing fast track connections on time and within budget is helping us go from strength to strength."
The company is also looking forward to joining the elite group of Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 league table companies at an awards dinner on May 25 hosted by Sir Richard Branson and at further events during the year.
"Tom and I were delighted and grateful to make the Fast Track 100 league table. Being recognised as one of the fastest growing business in the UK provides credibility for the business and acknowledgment of GFC’s success and what has been achieved." says Richard. "In addition to helping our general profile, it also gives employees confidence and validation of what the business is trying to accomplish and recognition of the professionalism of the organisation.
"We have increased our turnover based on repeat custom, market awareness and a flexible approach." Richard continues. "Our ongoing aim is to continue increasing market share and ultimately, to become the leading ICP for generation projects in the UK. We are thrilled that our recent successes take us further towards those goals."
Originally a home-based business, GFC moved into The Hive in June 2014. Initially operating from a start-up 22sqm office, it now has a connected 43sqm and 32sqm office space. The company cites The Hive's flexible affordable office space and meeting rooms, location and on-site business support and advice services from North Somerset Enterprise Agency as key to its decision to be based at the centre. It also enjoys the relaxed friendly vibe, flexible approach and the sense of building a close business community with like-minded Entrepreneurs.
"We are proud to have one of Britain's fastest growing firms as a tenant and thrilled for GFC on its recent achievements and success," says Rob Hicks, who manages business development at The Hive. "The Hive is designed to support businesses through their start-up and growth and GFC is a fantastic example of this. We are delighted to have played our part in helping the company as it expands and develops."
More information can be found at www.greenfrogconnect.co.uk and GFC can be contacted on 01934 411 233.