THE man in charge of Britain’s biggest power distribution network has praised the “crucial” role played by workers in Potters Bar in delivering a great service to customers.

UK Power Networks chief executive Basil Scarsella also pledged to focus his efforts on putting the company at the heart of the community, during a visit to the firm’s Darkes Lane offices.

The company owns and runs the electricity distribution networks in the east of England, including Hertfordshire, since buying the business from EDF Energy in October.

During his first few months at the helm, Mr Scarsella has been busy touring offices and depots to meet staff and share his aims for the future.

On January 5 it was the turn of Potters Bar, one of UK Power Networks’ key operational centres, where 270 people work.

The offices mainly house staff from the connections department, which is responsible for the design and installation of new and altered electricity supply connections.

Mr Scarsella said: “We have an important role to play in the lives of the communities we serve, and I am focusing on making sure our customers get the best possible service.

“It has been a very interesting time, with the weather bringing us sub-zero temperatures and it’s been good to observe the way our teams work to keep the lights on – the service they provide is fantastic.

“I have been talking to people to hear what they think and what they would like to see changed, so that we can assess and make decisions for the future.”

He added: “The people who run our connections business in Potters Bar play a crucial role in our operation and it has been interesting learning about the work they do connecting new customers to the network.”