BRUSH partners with Meidensha to bring high-voltage transmission technology to the UK
BRUSH Group is partnering with Meidensha Corporation, a global leader in vacuum interrupter technology, to bring Meidensha’s high-voltage circuit breakers to the UK for the first time.
The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), enabling BRUSH to offer Meidensha’s 145 kV SF₆-free circuit breaker to UK Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), Transmission System Operators (TSOs) and independent network operators, supporting the protection of critical infrastructure.
As part of the agreement, Meidensha will manufacture and supply the circuit breakers, while BRUSH will provide marketing, sales, installation, testing and commissioning, alongside full lifecycle after-sales support.
Managing Executive Officer of Meidensha Corporation, Shinichiro Kon, said: “Through this strategic partnership with BRUSH, we will supply our proven, eco-friendly high-voltage technology to the UK power sector for the first time. By deploying these advanced F-gas-free circuit breakers, the two companies will work in partnership to support UK network operators in pursuing network resilience and net-zero targets by providing reliable, climate-friendly alternatives to conventional SF₆ circuit breakers.”
CEO of BRUSH Group, Nicolas Pitrat, said: “This collaboration combines Meidensha’s advanced high-voltage technology with BRUSH’s established UK presence and experienced field engineering teams to deliver tangible benefits to DNOs, TSOs and independent network operators.”
The partnership represents an important step towards accelerating the adoption of sustainable high-voltage technologies and supporting the UK’s transition to a more resilient, low-carbon electricity network.
BRUSH grows its CRYNO switchgear range with new AFLR configuration
BRUSH Group are proud to announce the expansion of our 12kV SF₆-free CRYNO switchgear range with the launch of CRYNO AFLR, a new arc fault location and reduction configuration built to meet the demands of fast-growing, safety-critical applications.
Since its introduction, CRYNO has become a trusted choice for customers across the UK, delivering the performance, reliability, and safety that BRUSH customers have come to expect. CRYNO AFLR adds another layer of protection, with additional chambers and cladding that protect operators and neighbouring panels from damage, giving operators the confidence to work safely on any side of the switchboard while minimising downtime.
The launch reflects the Group’s continued commitment to innovation and excellence, and our dedication to partnering closely with customers throughout each project, from the earliest stages of specification to long-term lifecycle support and future network expansion.
As demand for safe, reliable power infrastructure continues to grow, CRYNO AFLR reflects BRUSH’s continued focus on safety by design.
BRUSH Group strengthens UK manufacturing with acquisition
Loughborough, UK: Energy engineering solutions provider BRUSH Group has acquired D K Moriarty Ltd, a leading UK manufacturer of instrument transformers, in a move that strengthens the Group’s domestic manufacturing capability, enhances supply chain resilience, and expands its specialist engineering expertise.
The acquisition brings a trusted and highly respected manufacturer into the BRUSH family. Based in Colchester, Essex, D K Moriarty has been designing and manufacturing current transformers (CTs), voltage transformers (VTs) and bespoke instrument transformer solutions since 1968, serving customers across the energy, industrial and commercial sectors.
The addition of D K Moriarty further strengthens BRUSH’s ability to deliver comprehensive power engineering solutions while providing greater control over a critical element of its supply chain. The acquisition also expands the Group’s manufacturing footprint and supports its ongoing commitment to investing in UK industry.
BRUSH Group CEO, Nicolas Pitrat said: “We are delighted to welcome D K Moriarty into the BRUSH family. The team have built an outstanding reputation over many decades for designing and building highly engineered instrument transformers that are trusted across the domestic electricity sector. Their expertise, commitment to quality, and customer-focused approach makes them an excellent fit for BRUSH.”
He added:
“This acquisition is particularly important as it strengthens our control over a crucial part of our supply chain, enhancing our technical capabilities and supporting our ambition to deliver even greater value to customers through shorter lead times, increased manufacturing base, and expanded engineering knowhow. And, just like our other recent acquisitions, it reinforces our long-term commitment to investing in UK manufacturing – particularly timely when reindustrialisation is high on the political agenda.”
Speaking of the acquisition, Operations Director, Sean Moriarty, whose father started the business some 58 years ago, said: “This agreement marks an exciting new chapter for our business. D K Moriarty has been built on a reputation of quality, reliability, and exceptional customer service and now by becoming part of BRUSH, we can further build on these qualities through access to a wider pool of engineering talent and the resources that being part of a larger organisation brings. We’re looking forward to working closely with our new colleagues in BRUSH to grow the business, enhance our capabilities, and continue supporting our customers with the high-quality products and service they’ve come to expect.”
Instrument transformers play a critical role in the safe and reliable operation of electrical networks, providing measurement and protection functions across power infrastructure. The addition of D K Moriarty’s specialist expertise further enhances BRUSH’s capability to support network operators, industrial customers and infrastructure projects across the UK.
The acquisition is the latest step in BRUSH’s growth strategy, strengthening its ability to deliver complete engineering solutions that support grid resilience, industrial electrification and the transition to a lower-carbon energy system. D K Moriarty will continue operating from its Colchester facility and will continue to serve customers and partners as normal.
BRUSH Transformers have supplied, manufactured, designed and installed a brand new 132kV – 11kV transformer at a Cheapside substation in Birmingham; an excellent demonstration of BRUSH’s capability to meet logistical challenges in city centre environments.
The task of installing the new 132kV – 11kV transformer at the Cheapside substation in Birmingham proved to be challenging due to the limited accessibility. Access to the substation was only possible via a narrow corridor, and to complete the job safely and quickly, BRUSH engineers had to devise a solution for moving the large transformer unit into place.
BRUSH engineers provided a solution by splitting the 132kV transformer unit, along with the related cooling banks, into two individual units. By doing so, they significantly reduced the overall transportation height of the units, and reduced the amount of on-site assembly work required.
A team of engineers from BRUSH oversaw every aspect of the project, with some of the work being undertaken at the weekend. The team worked closely with various specialist contractors who transported the transformer and conducted precision crane lifts. Every detail of the project was carefully planned and executed by BRUSH’s dedicated team.
Transformer Services Manager, Justin Johnson at BRUSH Transformers stated, “The Cheapside project is another fine example of what BRUSH does best. We are known for taking on those jobs that require real engineering innovation and hands-on skills.”
He went on to say that:
“It isn’t easy transporting a 132kV transformer unit of this size into a tight urban centre space but, thanks to our team thinking ‘outside-of-the-box’, we were able to bring it to fruition with precision. “
All-Energy 2026: From concept to connection, and beyond
Engineering solutions provider, BRUSH Group, made its debut appearance at this year’s All-Energy Exhibition & Conference held at the SEC Glasgow.
Providing a platform to showcase its engineering solutions and product portfolio, the event brought together professionals from across the energy sector.
Demonstrating its breadth of capability, BRUSH shared demonstrations of CRYNO, the latest addition to its switchgear portfolio, along with news and updates about its service and solutions offering which includes design and build, consultancy, authorising, fully accredited ICP generation connections, maintenance, and turnkey solutions for critical power and grid infrastructure projects across the UK.
Speaking about the event Group Marketing Manager, Kellie Tillyer said: “We are delighted to have exhibited at All-Energy, particularly in a year where we are celebrating 150 years of BRUSH innovation.”
She continued:
“The event provided a valuable opportunity to share with visitors how BRUSH is at the heart of the renewable and low carbon energy conversation, and how, through our extensive experience, we are ideally positioned to support the delivery of future-ready critical infrastructure.”
BRUSH Group is a chosen partner for national and regional power generation and distribution network operators, through innovation and a commitment to delivering solutions that address grid-resilience and drive system change, the company supports the global drive to net zero, helping to create a future-proof infrastructure that meets the needs of today’s changing energy landscape.
BRUSH marks 150 years of innovation with special exhibition
An interactive new exhibition has opened which celebrates BRUSH’s long history as well as its links with the Leicestershire town of Loughborough.
Home to the company since 1879, the exhibition, titled Keeping The Lights On charts the company from its namesake, Charles Francis Brush’s early years as an innovator and entrepreneur, to today as a company developing innovative, sustainable engineering solutions for critical infrastructure projects across the UK.
Housed at Charnwood Museum, in the heart of the East Midland’s town, this interactive exhibition highlights the contribution of generations of colleagues who together have helped to shape the business and build the UK’s energy network through the solutions designed and manufactured at the site.
Speaking of the exhibition, BRUSH Group CEO, Nicolas Pitrat said: “BRUSH has a long and rich heritage, and it is a history that we share with the town of Loughborough and its people. We’ve been a major employer in the region for generations of people who together have played a key role in shaping the UK’s energy landscape.
“It’s a pleasure to be able to share our story through this exhibition and highlight the importance of BRUSH, our employees and the town to the country’s critical energy infrastructure, in the past, present and future.”
Councillor Kevin Crook, Leicestershire County Council’s cabinet member for heritage, said: “The history detailed in this exhibition just shows how powerful and meaningful heritage and legacy can be.
“I know this exhibition will mean a lot to local communities who may have grown up in the local area, who are employees of the manufacturer or even visitors to the area, who get a glimpse of the iconic BRUSH neon sign when arriving in Loughborough rail station.
“It’s a great celebration for BRUSH and it really highlights how Leicestershire is thriving, bolstering business and supporting economic growth. I’d encourage everyone to visit the museum and see this local piece of history brought to life.”
Councillor Anne Gray, Charnwood Borough Council’s Lead Member for Leisure Facilities, said: “Having BRUSH in Loughborough is something for the whole town to be proud of.
“This exhibition at Charnwood Museum will shine a light on the work they have done as a global business for so many years, and it is a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors to discover how Loughborough has contributed to international engineering excellence.”
The exhibition is free entry and open from Saturday 9 May until Sunday 27 September. Charnwood Museum is open Wednesday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm and Sunday 1pm to 4pm.
Loughborough, UK: Energy engineering solutions company BRUSH Group has acquired iDESo Group, home of industrial switchgear specialists Allenwest Limited and Baldwin & Francis Limited from Longacre Group, the UK-based evergreen B2B investment company, in a deal which will see the Group’s switchgear manufacturing capabilities increase significantly.
The takeover boosts BRUSH’s product range and aftermarket service capabilities and enables the Group to develop a nationwide OEM-agnostic service platform that will both benefit and allow growth beyond BRUSH’s established, predominantly DNO,customer base.
Allenwest, established in 1918 and based in Prestwick, Scotland, employs around 40 people and specialises in electrical control and hazardous area equipment. Baldwin & Francis, founded in 1919 in Sheffield, England, also employs circa 40 and is best known for its expertise in electrical equipment for the toughest of environments – including industrial, utilities, energy and rail.
By combining the two businesses’ field service engineering expertise, which includes maintenance, repair, overhaul and 24/7 technical support, BRUSH can deliver flexible, end-to-end power engineering solutions, across a broader range of core industries such as energy, water, technology, transport, manufacturing, and commercial development.
Nicolas Pitrat, CEO of BRUSH Group, said:
“We are delighted to welcome the teams from Allenwest and Baldwin & Francis into the BRUSH family. It is apt that in a year when we are celebrating 150 years of innovation that we welcome these highly respected, pioneering brands to our Group.”
“Along with engineering expertise, these acquisitions bring complementary market positions and expand our portfolio into new areas, enabling us to build a more diversified and resilient organisation that is focused on exceeding customer expectations.”
He concluded:
“The additional expertise of our new colleagues means BRUSH is well-placed to deliver an enhanced aftermarket service offering across an even broader range of products and geographical locations, something we know is important to our customers, and to the energy security of the UK.”
The integration of Allenwest and Baldwin & Francis also allows BRUSH to leverage established production, assembly and distribution systems as well as certifications and accreditations which strengthen BRUSH’s already impressive technical expertise.
In addition, the acquisition expands BRUSH’s product portfolio to include equipment certified to ATEXand IECExstandards – widely recognised certifications ensuring equipment safety in hazardous and explosive environments. These accreditations unlock entry into new, high-growth markets for BRUSH while enhancing credibility across regulated industries.
Neil Shailer, CEO of Baldwin & Francis and Allenwest said: “BRUSH is a well-established player with a strong reputation across the sector, and we are incredibly excited to become part of this dynamic and future-focused business.”
He added “It’s a fresh chapter and one that we relish as we look to collaborating and innovating with our new colleagues. I’d like to extend my thanks to Longacre Group for their support over the years in positioning our businesses ready for even further growth.”
Stani Schmidt, CEO of Longacre Group added: “During our ownership, we built iDESo into a UK leader in mission-critical switchgear, bringing together Baldwin & Francis and Allenwest, sharpening the Group’s focus on premium specialised solutions for blue-chip customers, nearly doubling revenues over six years. We are proud of what the team has built and confident that BRUSH, with its scale and technical reputation, is the ideal partner to take that story forward.”
BRUSH Group set to return at Data Centre World 2026
For the second year in a row, BRUSH Group is heading to Data Centre World to share its innovative range of electrical power products, services, and solutions.
Held at the ExCeL, London, between 4 and 5 March, Data Centre World is a one-stop event for the data centre industry, and provides the perfect opportunity for manufacturers and suppliers to the sector to meet with clients and project partners. On stand E35, the BRUSH team will be on hand to discuss the company’s capabilities, including their end-to-end engineering solutions, innovative products portfolio and aftermarket services, which together help to meet the demands of mission-critical data centre projects.
BRUSH Group Sales Director, Rob Clarey, who will be on the stand, said of the event: “This is a special event for us, last year we chose it as the place to launch the latest addition to our switchgear portfolio, CRYNO, and this year, we’re marking our 150years of innovation as we celebrate 150 years since our namesake, Charles Frances Brush, invented his electric dynamo, from which the brand we are today grew!”
He continued:
“Last year’s event was a great success, providing the opportunity to interact with many visitors and we look forward to this year demonstrating what BRUSH has to offer to an even wider range of visitors.”
BRUSH Group sponsors Loughborough’s 2025 Christmas lights switch-on
UK engineering leader BRUSH Group brought festive spirit and community pride to Loughborough as the headline sponsor of the town’s Christmas Lights Switch-On. The annual celebration, attended by residents, marked the official start of the Christmas season and reinforced BRUSH’s deep ties to the community.
The event was organised with Charnwood Borough Council and Fosse 107 radio. It featured live entertainment, a countdown led by the mayor, and the illumination of Loughborough’s Christmas lights.
Kellie Tillyer, Marketing Manager at BRUSH Group, said: “As a business with deep roots in Loughborough, we’re proud to be part of such a cherished tradition. Supporting the Christmas Lights Switch-On is our way of giving back to the community and celebrating the spirit of togetherness that defines our town.”
BRUSH is a long-standing champion of innovation and community investment. It used the occasion to highlight its commitment to sustainability and local engagement.
Founded in 1879, BRUSH Group has grown into a UK leader in power engineering, with a reputation for championing technical excellence. “Events like this showcase the best of Loughborough,” added Tillyer. “We’re delighted to help light up the town and bring people together to celebrate.”
The Christmas Lights Switch-On remains a highlight of the Loughborough calendar. With BRUSH Group’s support, this year’s event captured the magic and unity of the festive season.
BRUSH Group promotes its energy management credentials at COP30
British energy engineering solutions provider BRUSH Group is set to promote its role as an enabler of decarbonisation at the UN’s forthcoming COP30, the world’s most important event on climate change – this year held in Brazil from 10 to 21 November.
BRUSH’s role in the delivery of net zero will be highlighted at the 30th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP30) through activities coordinated by the SJH Group in its capacity as the official media partner for World Engineering Day – an annual global initiative of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO).
As part of its collaboration with the SJH Group, BRUSH features in a new film that explores how engineering innovation is helping to drive a more sustainable future. The film, available to view here forms part of a wider initiative celebrating industrial leadership and resilience.
The production was created by the SJH Group as part of celebrations to mark the 325th anniversary of the 1701 Act of Settlement – one of the most significant pieces of legislation in British history, which helped establish the authority of Parliament to govern the country. Supported by a book produced by the SJH Group for the History of Parliament Trust, the focus of these historic celebrations is the transformation of British and Commonwealth industry, emphasising the resilience, innovation and sustainability in British manufacturing and supply chains. BRUSH is a prime example of a business that has continually reinvented itself as new technologies have emerged, adapting to shifting market demand whilst retaining its reputation for engineering prowess.
Today BRUSH is a leader in the design, manufacture, and installation of power transformers, electrical switchgear, and complementary engineering solutions. With business units in England, Scotland and Wales, the Loughborough-based company has a critical role to play in addressing the twin challenges of energy security and decarbonisation.
The story of BRUSH will also be captured in a forthcoming commemorative book 100 Years of Monarchy and Democracy: The Crown, Parliament and the Commonwealth spanning a century of governance, legislation, and constitutional change, bringing together key historical moments from the monarchy and politics, alongside factors that have shaped British industry.
Nicolas Pitrat, CEO of BRUSH Group said: “It’s a real honour for BRUSH to be recognised as part of these initiatives and at COP. We have been part of the UK’s industrial journey for almost 150 years, and the work we do directly impacts critical energy infrastructure – supporting every aspect of our daily lives.
“Whether it’s a hospital, a railway, or a wind farm, the connections we enable help make the UK’s energy systems stronger, cleaner, and smarter. To put it simply, we’re as much a part of Britain’s future as we are its history and having the opportunity to celebrate that, especially during COP, is a proud moment for all of us at BRUSH.”
