Supporting RPS to rebuild a key UK electricity interconnector

The entire building and all electrical infrastructure within were destroyed in the fire or by water damage, as a consequence of fighting the fire. RPS’ scope of work was to supply the new 11kV Switchgear, 400V Switchgear, Transformers, Battery systems and a 1.7MVA Standby Generator.

Integrating Primary Power’s support across the project

RPS enlisted the support of Primary Power for a range of services across the project, including design, project management support and on-site coordination to RPS and their subcontractors.

The objective for the team was to design, supply, install and commission replacement assets associated with the auxiliary supplies. This consisted of:

• A 7 circuit 11kV Switchboard
• A LV switchboard with 4 incomer circuit breakers and 65 distribution circuits for the site
• Battery charger systems
• A back-up diesel generator and control system

Operational requirements presented a significant milestone challenge. This was mitigated by implementing several temporary running arrangements to restore the interconnector with subsequent outages to complete the works.

Throughout the project, Primary Power provided a focal point, acting as the interface between client, main contractor, RPS and RPS sub-contractors. This also encompassed other client contractors associated with civils and cable installation works.

This included:

• Managing design assurance requirements and modifying associate drawings and documents accordingly
• Managing contractual requirements and associated variations
• Providing a staged programme for works, including temporary and final running arrangements
• Coordinating all equipment deliveries with off-loading requirements, including shipping equipment from the RPS works in New Zealand
• Producing test documentation and planning Factory and Site Acceptance Testing
• Providing Risk Assessments and Method Statements to be approved by the main contractor and client Senior Authorised Persons, for all works
• Contributing to weekly programme and design meetings with the client and main contractor
• Providing asset data information for all auxiliary system asset replacements
• Managing the project closure requirements for all the RPS works

Collaboration is key

Collectively RPS, bolstered by Primary Power’s support, played a significant role in restoring these assets to a rather unique scale and timeframe. Primary Power’s role in the project demonstrated a wide skill set, from initial design concept through to commissioning support.

Primary Power maintained site attendance over an 18-month period for on-site coordination, providing the team with the chance to gain an in-depth knowledge of the project. This is further highlighted through the sheer scale of the project, with key milestones including:

• 186 drawings were managed through production, design assurance and project closure
• 123 Operation and Maintenance manuals were compiled and submitted
• The team contributed to over 200 client coordination meeting, covering design assurance, interfacing and programme updates

Looking ahead

This was a complex and interesting project for Primary Power. The recovery works began in September 2021, during a post pandemic time when supply chains for switchgear were disrupted, presenting a challenge for product release. This also came at a time when the client was under scrutiny from the media around wholesale energy prices, presenting pressures for a speedy resolution.

However, the team worked well together to provide a solution to the challenges that the project posed. Through a combination of close collaborative working and proven success, Primary Power have enhanced its relationship with RPS and its associated businesses, Aardvarc and Haesco. Beyond that, new knowledge and skills were gained throughout the process, enabling future growth and skills development for the team.