ePIPE Small Diameter Pipe Lining Named National Grid Award Finalist

Morrison Utility Services, a leading utility services provider in the UK, was named a top three finalist for the inaugural National Grid Supplier Design Awards for its use of ePIPE small diameter pipe lining technology.

The awards were presented at a ceremony in London by Dame Ellen MacArthur and Sir Peter Gershon, Chairman of National Grid. The competition challenged National Grid suppliers to develop ideas that support a circular economy by using intelligent design to reduce waste, preserve resources, and retain asset value.

Supporting Circular Economy Goals Through Pipe Refurbishment

ePIPE small diameter pipe lining technology supports a refurbishment-first approach to utility asset intervention. Instead of replacing existing pipe infrastructure, ePIPE allows small diameter pipes to be restored in place, helping reduce construction disruption, waste, material use, and customer impact.

Presenting the awards, Dame Ellen spoke about the benefits for companies that make the transition to a circular economy: “What’s fantastic about this supply design competition is how all the entrants have looked at tangible solutions to implementing these changes and demonstrated the significant benefits on offer.”

Reducing Waste, Disruption, and Replacement Costs

Jim Arnold, Executive Director, Morrison Utility Services, commented: “These awards challenge National Grid suppliers to identify innovative ways of implementing circular economy into the design of materials, plant, processes and equipment. We are delighted to receive this recognition for our submission on the ePIPE small diameter pipe lining technology that positions refurbishment rather than replacement as the first choice for asset intervention. As well as its demonstrable practical benefits which include; a reduction in the construction risks, reduced installation costs and an enhanced customer experience due to minimised disruption, the ePIPE solution supports the move to a circular economy by offering increased asset life, reduced waste and the need for fewer technical materials in comparison to pipe replacement.”

By extending the life of existing pipe assets, ePIPE technology helps utilities and contractors reduce the need for full pipe replacement. This approach can lower installation costs, reduce construction risks, and minimize disruption for customers while supporting sustainability and circular economy objectives.

Award-Winning Innovation for Utility Pipe Restoration

Pipe Restoration Services (PRS), a joint venture between Morrison Utility Services and US-based Pipe Restoration Technologies LLC, was also named winner in the category of “Best Innovation Implemented or Adopted by a Contractor” at the 2013 UK Energy Innovation Awards.

The award recognized the adaptation of ePIPE technology for gas riser systems. Originally introduced to the UK to help eliminate lead contamination and leaks in water services, ePIPE was later adapted to extend asset life in gas infrastructure.

Why ePIPE Matters for Utility Asset Management

For utility providers, contractors, and infrastructure managers, ePIPE small diameter pipe lining technology offers a practical alternative to traditional pipe replacement. By restoring pipes in place, the solution helps reduce waste, conserve materials, extend infrastructure life, and improve the customer experience.

Morrison Utility Services’ recognition as a National Grid Supplier Design Awards finalist highlights the growing importance of in-place pipe restoration technologies in sustainable utility infrastructure planning.