Project Overview
Hayward Utility Services was appointed as the civil engineering contractor for the delivery of a 20MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) within a live water treatment works. Working on behalf of the HV/LV electrical contractor, our role included the construction of the civil infrastructure and installation support required to deliver the project safely, efficiently and to programme.
Delivering a major energy project within an operational utility site required close collaboration with the principal contractor, the client and other key stakeholders to ensure all works were completed safely and with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
The Challenge
Constructing critical energy infrastructure within a live water treatment facility presented a number of technical and operational challenges.
The DNO cable route crossed environmentally sensitive areas, protected tree zones and an operational easement containing numerous live services, many of which were poorly documented. Careful planning, detailed coordination and strict adherence to site procedures were essential to maintain safety and protect existing infrastructure.
Throughout the project, our team worked collaboratively with ecological specialists, arboricultural consultants and the wider project team to manage risks while maintaining progress against programme.
Our Solution
Hayward provided a fully coordinated civil engineering solution, delivering:
- Installation of the DNO cable route through complex operational areas.
- Assembly and installation of the galvanised steel support structures.
- Civil infrastructure for battery units, PCS equipment, transformers and switchroom.
- Offloading, lifting and installation of major plant and equipment.
- Cable installation and associated civil works.
- Ongoing programme coordination with multiple suppliers using just-in-time deliveries.
As the project evolved, several design changes required continuous review of the construction programme. Through proactive planning, regular coordination meetings and transparent reporting, we successfully adapted our delivery strategy while maintaining progress on the critical path.
The Outcome
The project was completed safely and successfully, with zero reportable incidents and full compliance with the principal contractor’s quality, environmental and health & safety requirements.
Hayward’s collaborative approach, technical expertise and ability to solve problems in a complex live environment enabled the project team to overcome significant logistical and operational challenges while maintaining programme certainty.
Today, the completed Battery Energy Storage System forms an important part of the UK’s transition towards a more resilient and sustainable energy network.
Project Highlights
- 20MW Battery Energy Storage System
- Live operational water treatment facility
- Zero reportable incidents
- Full programme delivery
- Complex DNO cable installation
- Multi-disciplinary self-delivery
- Collaborative delivery with principal contractor and utility client
