Timely delivery
Phase 1 of the Cork Harbour project delivered on time
A significant milestone has been reached in delivering the first stage of the Cork Harbour project on time. This stage facilitated the connection of the new 430MW ESB Power Generation Combine Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant in Aghada and the new 445MW Bord Gáis CCGT power plant in Whitegate to the national grid.
When both power plants are fully commissioned and operational, 25% of Ireland's generation capacity will be located in the Cork Harbour area. The Cork Harbour project is a €250 million development and reinforcement of the national grid in the Munster area to cater for this generation. Phase 1 of the Cork Harbour project involved the construction of two new outdoor 220kV tailfed substations beside the two new power plants and the installation of 4km of underground high voltage cables to link these new substations into the existing Aghada 220kV substation.
The ESB Networks Ltd project team, working closely with their colleagues from the High Voltage (HV) group in ESBI, delivered this part of the project in record time. This project drew on the expertise and input of several sections of both ESB Networks Ltd and ESBI HV. The electrical installation work in the two new substations was undertaken by Powerteam Electrical Services, while the works in Aghada substation were undertaken jointly by Powerteam and local ESB Networks Ltd staff.
A number of challenges had to be overcome including the integration of new equipment with old and the installation of new equipment in close proximity to existing live equipment. ESB Networks Ltd staff from Inchicore, Dublin, managed the installation of high voltage cables. Denis Moriarty, of The Kierries Ltd, carried out the cable civil works.
Much credit must be given to all involved for the teamwork and close co-operation that ensured the delivery of this critical infrastructure project within a very short timeframe. ESB Telecoms must also be mentioned for their provision of SCADA communications and fibre connectivity to the new substations and also there is credit due to the commissioning staff in Asset Management Services, ESBI. All parties involved should take great pride in the fact that there were no serious safety incidents or lost time incidents recorded and that the highest safety standards were maintained throughout.
ESB Networks Ltd and ESBI will continue to work closely to ensure the completion of the project ontime and to budget.
