Design & build of a 132kV-33kV substation and 132kV cable circuit to connect to the grid supply point

Following our successful design phase, Freedom was appointed to deliver the design, build, installation and commissioning of a 132kV substation and single cable circuit to Northern Powergrid’s (NPg) grid supply point and battery energy storage supply.

During the groundworks, we uncovered evidence the site had once been used for landfill, leading to NPg to request a more robust foundation solution. We mitigated the problem by using Overburden Drilling EXentric (ODEX) piles. The piling system is designed to penetrate deep bedrock and uses a dual action method to drill and hammer steel casing into the ground. Following NPg’s standards and procedures, we installed 115 ODEX piles to a depth of 25m across most of the site.

Throughout the project, the team managed the deadline demands of the client with the standards and requirements of NPg. We took a safe and agile approach to changes, ensuring compliance was in place before construction continued and working swiftly to reduce the impact on the programme.

Our historical relationship with NPg eased the project along and despite delays caused by the unexpected ground conditions, we handed over the asset within eighteen months.