In 2014, Powell Engineering UK Limited (PEL) was successfully awarded the contract by Alstom to install two Harmonic Filters (1 x 150kV HF, 1 x 275kV HF) and one 275kV HF AIS Feeder Bay for the Westermost Rough Windfarm Onshore Substation for Dong Energy.
The substation connects DONG Energy’s Offshore Wind Farm to the UK’s transmission system. The Westermost Rough Offshore Wind Farm’s site is situated 8km off the Yorkshire Coast, north of Hull and contains 35 turbines of 6MW capacity, covering a total area of 35km2 providing enough electricity to power around 200,000 homes. It helps to fulfil the UK’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and contribute towards the UK achieving its targets of electricity generation from renewable energy schemes.

PEL were responsible for the installation of all main plant and equipment associated with the two Harmonic Filter bays and Feeder bay including:

  • Capacitor Banks
  • Reactors and sound shields
  • Resistors
  • Disconnectors with double Earth switches
  • Surge arrestors
  • Current Transformers
  • Earth Switches
  • Post Insulators
  • Support Structures
  • Busbars, Conductors and connectors
  • Marshalling kiosks
  • Power, control and signalling cabling works associated with the new equipment
  • Earthing
  • Interlocking system

PEL were challenged by numerous issues ranging from adverse weather conditions to late design changes. A delayed start lead to an extremely demanding programme coupled with having to work in parallel with other contractors in a relatively enclosed area. Efficient operational planning with Alstom, DONG and the other contractors on site was key to the success of the project.
Site operatives showed a persistent determination to overcome every difficulty and challenge and through genuine operational team work we delivered the project safely, on time and to budget. This commitment to both efficiency and safety developed a cooperative and professional working relationship with Alstom and DONG which in turn enabled us to deliver value to our client.
The PEL stores and fabrication workshop provided invaluable support and enabled PEL to react effectively and efficiently to expedite changing site designs and demands.

In July 2014 the completed Harmonic Filter and Feeder bays were successfully handed over to our client.