LOCATION:
Located near St Austell in Cornwall, the Indian Queens Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project involved the civil balance of plant works for a 47.5MW facility. This project supports the UK’s transition to a low carbon energy system by enabling grid flexibility and energy storage. It marks the second successful collaboration between our team and Powersystems UK for Pivot Power, following the Bustleholme BESS project completed in 2022.
The scope of civil works included:
- Installation of 33kV and communications ducting between the South Compound, North Compound, and the NGET Substation
- Full site clearance and preparation
- Foundations, bunding, and drainage for all buildings and structures, including substations, transformers, and mechanical equipment
- Construction of substation structures, including platforms and access steps
- Internal access tracks and pedestrian walkways
- Perimeter and internal fencing, including gates
- Permanent vehicular and pedestrian access for all phases of the site lifecycle
- Sustainable drainage system (SuDS) design to maximise site permeability
- Civil and mechanical works for cable installation, including trenching, ducting, and service protection
- Installation of site earthing and lightning protection systems
- Construction of foundations and housing for the DNO standby low-voltage supply
Challenge
- Complex site layout: Coordinating ducting and access routes across multiple compounds and interfaces with the NGET Substation.
- Drainage requirements: Designing a SuDS-compliant system to manage surface water sustainably in a rural setting.
- Service integration: Accommodating and protecting existing buried services while installing new infrastructure.
- Programme coordination: Aligning civil works with electrical installation timelines and delivery of major plant items.
Solution
A phased and collaborative approach was adopted, ensuring seamless integration with electrical and mechanical works. The use of SuDS techniques allowed for effective drainage while maintaining site permeability. Close coordination with Powersystems UK and Pivot Power ensured that all civil infrastructure was delivered to specification, on time, and with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.
Outcome
The Indian Queens BESS project was delivered successfully, providing a robust civil infrastructure platform for a 47.5MW energy storage facility.
The site now plays a key role in supporting grid stability and renewable energy integration in the South West. This project further strengthens our partnership with Powersystems UK and Pivot Power, demonstrating our capability in delivering complex energy infrastructure projects.
