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UTILITY WEEK | 10TH - 16TH MARCH 2017 | 5 A knowledge transfer partnership between Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) and the University of Dundee has been awarded the highest grade of "Outstanding" by Innovate UK. The partnership has helped SSEN transform its customer service offering, especially for vulnerable customers. It identifies knowledge gaps and shapes specialist training for employees. 6.3% The amount by which independent energy supplier Ecotricity will raise the price of its standard variable tariff from 4 April. Electricity prices will increase by 9.8% and gas prices by 3%. MOSL boss to bow out Market Operator Services Limited (MOSL) has begun the hunt for a new chief executive to succeed Ben Jeffs, who has announced he will leave this summer. Jeffs joined MOSL in June 2015 to lead the delivery and operation of the central market operating system and processes that will enable the competitive water market to function on 1 April. However, following discussions with the board, Jeffs has confirmed that he does not wish to be considered for the role of permanent chief executive. Jeffs has given his assurance that he will support the board during the selection process, and has reiterated his commitment to lead the organisation over the coming months to ensure a successful launch and transition to the enduring market operator in the live market. MOSL chairman Andrew Pinder thanked Jeffs for his "drive, determination and depth of knowledge" throughout "a period of enormous challenge and opportunity for MOSL and the water industry". Storm Doris produced a record-breaking day for Western Power Distribution's (WPD) West Midlands area, causing more than a month's faults in 24 hours. Although Doris hit all parts of WPD's area, it strengthened moving inland and was a category two storm by the time it reached the west and east Midlands. WPD's forward-planning procedures were supplemented by engineers travel- ling from the South West and south Wales to help the worst affected areas. In addition to its call centre response, WPD sent 36,500 text mes- sages, 3,500 emails to people who had signed up for the company's severe weather alerts, 1,035 tweets, took part in 580 live webchats and posted and responded to messages on Facebook. WPD responds as Doris batters West Midlands WATER The extended deadline for entry to the Utility Week Stars Awards 2017. Find out more at: www.utilityweekstars.co.uk 10 March