Get to know our Critical Power Team

We have long delivered power solutions to thousands of customers through an extensive fleet of generators , and more recently, renewable energy solutions like battery storage units and energy management systems.

However, in 2022 our Energy business began a transformation, and was strengthened through strategic investment and the acquisition of established Critical Power experts, Optimum Power Services (OPS).

Now, 20 months on from the acquisition it’s time to get to know our Critical Power Team a little better, and some of the experts that make up this specialist team.

Delivering Award Winning Critical Projects.?

Our Critical Power team have already been recognised for their ability to deliver ‘world first’ solutions, combining their Energy focused expertise and passion for more sustainable solutions.

In 2023 a ground-breaking project saw the team design and build an off-grid Energy Farm for a leading UK infrastructure project, supplying 10 Megawatts (10,000 kVA) of power. The system features twenty 500KvA generators, designed to convert low voltage power to high voltage power, 11,000 volts in this case.

This generator node size (of 500KvA) was chosen as opposed to a 1250KvA option as it provides significant cost saving (￡4.5K/week), by burning less fuel, and reducing average genset exhaust pipe NOx levels from 340ppm to an average of 40ppm by utilising bespoke selective catalytic reduction systems (SCR). Furthermore, a third of the volume of urea (AdBlue) is required, when compared with larger generator node sizes.

This innovation means the industry can now access a flexible, scalable, mobile power plant model which achieves a ‘better than’ Stage V emission output.

The team’s expertise is being recognised throughout the industry, culminating in winning the AMPS Environmental Product of the Year award, alongside partners Eminox, solidifying the expertise the Critical Power team can deliver for clients across the continent.

The Expert Team:

It’s without doubt that our people are integral to the success of each project, with the Critical Power team made up of over 50 Colleagues, all with a vast array of experience. Here’s just a few of the teammates who make Sunbelt Rentals’ Critical Power industry-leading experts.

Michael Sheffield

With over three decades in the Energy and Critical Power industry, Michael's journey has equipped him with the expert skills needed to navigate complex problems and develop strategic solutions.

From pivotal roles at leading Switchgear and Deep-Sea electronics companies to serving as a Lead Parallel Technician at Cummins, his commitment to delivering solutions in high-stakes scenarios where power failure is simply not an option is unwavering.

Originally from the Southern state of Texas in the USA, Michael’s journey took an international turn in 2023 when he emigrated to the UK to head up our Critical Power Technical Sales team. The diverse experiences gained in the American energy sector have laid the perfect foundation for his current role, where alongside the dynamic team he can contribute his expertise to the ever-evolving Critical energy landscape.

Lisa Chesterton

Lisa has been a pivotal member of the team for over 5 years, helping to oversee the transition from an independent business to integration within Sunbelt Rentals.

Whist at OPS her multiple roles supported a fast-paced growing business, looking after everything from HR to office management. The transition to Sunbelt Rentals has now seen her step into a Commercial Management role, where she’s able to flex her passion for reporting and cost forecasts, alongside people development and business growth.

Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Lisa emigrated permanently to the UK in 2015, following her English born parents back to their homeland.

This international background means Lisa fits perfectly into the multi-national Critical Power team, embracing her professional journey and personal roots, finding joy in the intersection of administrative excellence, leadership and the cultural blend that defines her background.

Kevin Hursey

Kevin is another teammate who has overseen the transition from OPS to Sunbelt Rentals. As the team’s General Manager and Operational lead, he oversees day-to-day operations in both the UK and the Netherlands, ensuring the seamless delivery of projects for clients. ?

With over 30 years industry experience, Kevin is well placed to lead the team and undoubtedly takes some of his passion for overcoming challenges into his daily life, finding solace on two wheels.

His spare time sees Kevin embark on motorcycling adventures across Europe and North Africa, with a passion for unusual places, different cultures and the unknown, this drive for exploration and overcoming challenges fuels both his personal life and his professional journey. ?

Andrew Howard-Willis

Relatively new to the Critical Power Team, but with over 30 years’ experience within the equipment rental and power industries Andrew has supported some ground-breaking UK based projects from early on in his career.

With roles in both the construction of the Channel Tunnel Rail link, and more recently the building of the new Wembley Stadium, Andy’s ability to overcome challenges on mega projects has undoubtedly helped to establish his expertise and provided a strong base for future career growth.

In keeping with the team’s strong international prowess Andrew hopes the next stages of his career will take him across Europe, as he looks to help grow the teams plans for expansion through mainland Europe, from their already established Rotterdam base.

Billy Wharton

And finally, Billy Wharton leads the team, as Director of Critical Power. Billy started his career as an Electrical Engineer in the British Army and has gone onto lead Critical Power projects across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, working with both fossil fuels and renewables.

But now, he’s happy to be back on home soil, and with the support of Sunbelt Rentals UK, is working to grow the business, continue developing the team and deliver bespoke critical energy solutions for customers old and new.?