Overview

eSmart Networks was appointed to provide the capability for RATP Dev Transit London to run new electric bus routes from their Edgware Garage.

This required the construction of a bespoke brick-built substation including a 3-panel switchboard for DNO (UKPN) adoption. Provision of a privately owned 1.5MVA transformer supplying a 2.5kA switch panel distributing power to 19 BYD 80kW AC charging outlets and 2 ABB 180kW DC Fast Chargers along with the installation of supporting infrastructure and containment, installed in the environment of a busy working bus Garage. Retro-fit works of this nature require extensive planning and close interaction with the client and installation team to keep efficiency high and client site disruption low.

Using knowledge from across the business, we were able to implement a scheme that allowed the client to power these chargers from a new HV metered supply into the site. The combination of the existing supply and its earthing arrangements alongside the installation of the new HV supply, would result in an adequate supply for their entire site facility and charging requirements. This project had the added complexity of the phased disconnection of existing supplies.

The project commenced in February 2021 with a live delivery date of June 2021.

Shortly after the commencement of works and at our client’s instruction, the design of the HV Cable route was altered to better suit their site operations.

A known consequence of this late design alteration was a revision of the legal agreements which had previously been cleared to allow commencement. This process proved to be lengthy and could cause potential delays with the permanent HV connection of the brick-built substation. With the urgency of energisation paramount, the solution was to install a temporary HV package substation with its own temporary HV connection. These works were conducted in collaboration with the DNO, UKPN, and would stay in place until such time that the legal process could permit a permanent HV supply to be installed.

The legal process was concluded in November 2023. Engineering time and resources from eSmart Networks and the DNO were aligned to carry out the closing stages of the HV install works to the permanent substation in January of 2024. Culminating in the successful energisation and adoption of this new supply connection by the DNO on Sunday 4th February 2024. This was closely followed by the removal of the temporary package substation and the reinstatement of the client’s facility.

Challenge

• Design, build and commission a new build brick-build 11kV 3-panel switchboard for DNO (UKPN) adoption.
• Installation of a 1.5MVA transformer, 2500A LV Feeder Pillar on a reinforced concrete plinth without disruption to the client’s day-to-day operations.
• Installation of both temporary and permanent HV Substations and supply cabling.
• Installation of LV distribution infrastructure within the busy confines of an
  operational public transport depot.

Solution

• Strong organisation and communication with the client, the DNO and their operational team members.
• A proactive approach to planning work, pushing for energisation and live date to be completed in early February 2024.
• Design and build of temporary and permanent HV Substations.
• Sourced an alternative HV supply arrangement to facilitate early operation when a third party’s legal position caused a project delay.