Electrix were engaged by Transpower for this job. Electrix subcontracted the civil works to Martin Civil Construction due to the team’s expertise working within the electrical environment. The upgrade included: a 660m2 yard extensions with 80m of new substation fence, the construction of 2 new transformer foundations and associated auxiliary foundations incl ducting, demolition of two existing transformer foundations, constructions ad installation of 13 pre-cast foundation and installation of 2 x 18,000L oil containment tanks and associated drainage.

Martin Civil Construction undertook

• • Prefabricated pad installation to upgrade existing bus system
  • Demolition of existing transformer foundations
  • Excavation of trenches for foundation pads
  • Oil containment system outside of yard involving excavation, shields, and installation of tanks
  • Installation of new fencing security system
  • Spreading of switchyard chip

Key challenges

• • Groundwater during the construction of gantry tower foundations and installation of oil containment tanks – involved dewatering pump and ongoing monitoring throughout.
  • Live equipment when undertaking work –overhead services combined with unknown ground services – When required, MCC had MAR’s in place to complete some of the close approach work. Even with a GPR and electrical service locations, due to the nature of working in switchyards, excavator spotters were there to ensure no known or unknown cables or earth leads were struck.
  • Weather in Naseby – team worked through the snow and wet weather in order to stick to project timeline for client.