HFF Solar Farm, 33kV HV Connection

Harborough Farm Fields, Solar Farm 33kV

eSmart Networks were appointed as grid consultants to de-risk the power connection, followed by a full turnkey design & build ICP contract. The grid consultancy work carried out identified DNO wireless communications as a key project cost & timescale risk. Our Grid consultancy team were able to identify alternate options and find a viable solution for the client which made the project viable.

Project overview

eSmart Networks was appointed the ICP (Independent Connection Provider) for the design and construction of the contestable and customer works for a 33KV on-site looped grid connection for a solar project in Rugby.

These works required us to excavate and construct the foundation and associated landing Platform for the NGED and Customer switch room, Supply and installation of a steel portal frame building, DNO approved switchgear and ancillary equipment, and the excavation of all cable routes from the switch room to the two 33kv termination poles as well as the LV cable to a new 11KV pole mounted transformer.
At the point of connection, NGED then removed a span of 33kV Overhead Line and installed two new double termination poles complete with stay wires. eSmart networks laid six new 33KV cables from the DNO switch room to the poles provided by NGED

Challenge

• An alternative transformer was required by DNO for LV connection.
• During this project there was a worldwide shortage of switchgear transducers.
• Ultra-high frequency comms instead of fibreoptic comms as tendered

Solution

We worked with the DNO to design a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to provide a pole-mounted transformer.
Continued with procurement and manufacture of switchgear for retro fitting, and had the transducers fitted whilst switchgear was in storage before site delivery
Quick and efficient turnaround of an innovative design to provide a UHF antenna base for the DNO switch room communications.

These works required us to excavate and construct the foundation and associated landing Platform for the NGED and Customer switch room, Supply and installation of a steel portal frame building, DNO approved switchgear and ancillary equipment, and the excavation of all cable routes from the switch room to the two 33kv termination poles as well as the LV cable to a new 11KV pole mounted transformer.
At the point of connection, NGED then removed a span of 33kV Overhead Line and installed two new double termination poles complete with stay wires. eSmart networks laid six new 33KV cables from the DNO switch room to the poles provided by NGED

We worked with the DNO to design a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to provide a pole-mounted transformer.
Continued with procurement and manufacture of switchgear for retro fitting, and had the transducers fitted whilst switchgear was in storage before site delivery
Quick and efficient turnaround of an innovative design to provide a UHF antenna base for the DNO switch room communications.

Harborough Farm Fields, Solar Farm 33kV

Project overview

Challenge

Solution

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