OCU Group maps £1bn revenue path with latest acquisition

Rapidly growing UK service provider OCU Group, specialising in energy transition and utilities infrastructure, has acquired independent electrical engineering specialist Athena PTS.

Founded in 2011 and based in Ulverston in Cumbria, Athena PTS is recognised for power systems engineering and early-stage technical consultancy.

It operates as an Independent Connection Provider (ICP), delivering contestable grid infrastructure up to 132 kV, alongside expertise in electrical balance of plant (EBoP) and private networks.

Athena’s services span four divisions – power projects and connections, mechanical and electrical contracting, consultancy, and operations and maintenance.

Its clients span renewable energy, marine electrical, nuclear, utilities, and building sectors.

“Athena’s expertise aligns with our commitment to supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions…”

OCU Group chief executive Michael Hughes said the acquisition will strengthen OCU’s position to meet growing demand for advanced electrical infrastructure across the UK’s renewable and utilities sectors through design, delivery, and O&M services.

This includes critical national infrastructure and high-security facilities, with projects it has worked on including the Kincardine offshore floating wind farm and the Larport Energy Storage site in Herefordshire.

“Athena’s expertise aligns with our commitment to supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions while continuing to deliver high-quality outcomes for our clients,” said Hughes.

OCU Energy chief operating officer and managing director, Neil O’Hara added: “Athena further strengthens our electrical engineering and early-stage technical consultancy capability at a time of growing demand for grid and renewable infrastructure.

“Their expertise enhances our ability to deliver fully integrated, end-to-end solutions and supports our long-term strategy in the energy transition market.”

Athena PTS director Neil Smith called it an “exciting next step”.

He said: “OCU’s scale and complementary capabilities will enable us to expand our electrical engineering services while maintaining the technical standards and client focus that define our business.”

Since its own acquisition by investment firm Triton Partners in 2022, parent company OCU Group, has grown rapidly, with annual revenues increasing from £295 million to more than £880 million in 2025.

Strategic acquisitions – including three in the last financial year and five the year before – added £301.4 million and £84 million in revenue respectively, strengthening OCU’s capabilities in energy transition, horizontal directional drilling, and water.

Was this interesting? Try: EXCLUSIVE: Premier Modular – On a trajectory of ‘opportunity’

If you have a tip or story idea that fits with our publication, please contact danielle@wavenews.co.uk