Smith Brothers completes first two Arlington Energy sites

The initial 60MW of Arlington Energy’s colossal 1GW UK portfolio of energy storage and gas peaker projects is now live, with Smith Brothers Contracting Ltd having energised both Greenfields and Chesterfield Road locations.

The Elland-based contractor carried out all engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) works on each project, with a 20-person team working on the delivery. Construction begun at both locations in May 2019 and was completed within six weeks of each other.

The first, a short-term operating reserve (STOR) site in Sheffield, Yorkshire, provides 20MWs of back-up power generation to National Grid. Completed with a day in hand, the Chesterfield Road development houses eight Rolls Royce gas generators and the associated infrastructure.

The project wasn’t without its challenges though, with the commissioning of the engines needing to be designed to pinpoint perfection. The team was also tasked with designing and building a container to house the engines – which have a reduced noise level and DBa attenuation.

As the second major project delivered by high voltage specialist, Smith Brothers, the 132kV development at Bedford’s Greenfield Road battery storage site will export 40MW of on-demand power to UK Power Networks (UKPN).

Acting as the independent connection provider (ICP), the contestable connection once again saw the team deliver a completely turnkey solution, from initial design and EPC works, to testing and connection.

Dave Ogden, director at Smith Brothers, said: “The last seven months have been a testament to the quality of the team here at Smith Brothers. As the first time we’ve worked with Arlington Energy – and on such a significant framework – we were keen to make our mark as the go-to IPC and EPC within the sector.

“Having delivered two great projects – once of which was completed a day early – we’ve certainly achieved that and are looking forward to working on several more in 2020.”

Matt Clare, director at Arlington Infrastructure, added: “What better way to round off 2019 than by energising the first two sites in our clean energy portfolio. Granted, I almost missed the ‘switch on’ after Smith Brothers wanted to energise a day early – but luckily, they waited for me!

“This moment has been a long time in the making, and although we still have plenty more to come in 2020 and 2021, it’s a significant milestone in the delivery of our green energy targets and the decommissioning of coal-fired power stations.”