Powersystems HV, specialist electrical engineers, are pleased to announce that they have been awarded the electrical works contract for the Pencloe Wind Farm. This contract comes from the principal contractor, RJ McLeod, who will be applying their extensive expertise to the project on behalf of their mutual client, Invenergy LLC, one of the largest energy producers in the USA. Powersystems is honoured to contribute to this significant renewable energy initiative, aiding Scotland’s green energy future.
Pencloe Wind Farm A Renewable Energy Project
Developed by North British Windpower and Pencloe Wind Energy, the wind farm is expected to be commissioned in 2025. It will feature 18 Vestas state of the art V136-4.5 MW wind turbines each potentially up to 125 metres tall. The Vestas Wind Turbine delivery is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2025 with the project expected to be fully operational in early 2026
The Scottish Government granted consent for the project in December 2018. Additionally, the project includes a community benefit fund of £5,000 per megawatt (MW) per year, which is index-linked to inflation.
The Pencloe Wind Farm aims to achieve a total generating capacity of 81 MW. With a low carbon footprint, the development is expected to become carbon neutral within just 18 months of operation.
The site is situated in Carsphairn Forest, approximately 5 kilometres south of New Cumnock.
Powersystems will manage the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the electrical works infrastructure for the turbines, ensuring compliance with CDM regulations. Their scope of work includes:
High Voltage System Installation
- Interconnecting HV cable works, installation of aluminium single-core 33 kV cables from the SPEN metering circuit breakers to the wind farm’s substation 33 kV switchboard.
- 33 kV cables, supply and installation of aluminium single-core 33kV cables to connect various turbines, feeders, and auxiliary systems throughout the site.
- Cable testing, conducting comprehensive tests, including HV cable continuity tests, 5 kV insulation resistance tests, sheath tests, and Very Low Frequency (VLF) testing.
Substation and Control Systems
- 33 kV switchgear, provision and installation of a 10-panel Siemens NX PLUS type indoor 33 kV switchboard, featuring multiple circuit breakers for wind farm feeders, auxiliary transformers, and reactive compensation.
- 33 kV protection and control implementation of protective relays and control systems to ensure safety and reliability across the wind farm’s high voltage network.
- Remote control panel and emergency systems, installation of control panels, emergency trip buttons, and monitoring systems to provide seamless operation and safety compliance.
Auxiliary Systems and Compliance
- Substation auxiliary supplies, installation of a 33,000/415V auxiliary transformer, LV auto-changeover panel, and standby generator to ensure reliable power supply for substation operations.
- Fire and intruder alarm systems, comprehensive fire detection and security systems installation to safeguard the substation infrastructure.
Fibre Optic and Earthing Systems
- Fibre optic cable network, supply and installation of a 24-core single-mode fibre optic cable network to facilitate communication across the site.
- Earthing system installation, Implementation of a robust earthing system to ensure the safety and integrity of the wind farm’s electrical infrastructure.
Project Management and Compliance
- Project management, a collaborative dedicated project management team overseeing the design, installation, and commissioning phases, ensuring adherence to the highest safety and quality standards.
- Compliance testing and training, conducting compliance tests and providing training to ensure the wind farm meets all regulatory requirements and operates efficiently.
This extensive scope of work underscores Powersystems commitment to delivering cutting-edge electrical solutions for the Pencloe Wind Farm, supporting the UK’s transition to renewable energy.
This project not only represents Powersystems mission to power the transition to a carbon free future as well as accelerate cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy but also highlights all of our commitments to fostering positive community relationships and benefiting local economies.
Pencloe Wind Farm Important Contribution to Renewable Energy
The Pencloe Wind Farm is a significant step forward in the UK’s efforts to expand its renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. With its 18 state-of-the-art wind turbines, the farm will contribute a total generation capacity of 81 MW to the national grid. This substantial output is capable of powering thousands of homes with clean, sustainable energy.
Key contributions of the project
- Reduction in Carbon Emissions – By harnessing wind energy, the Pencloe Wind Farm will help to reduce carbon emissions, contributing to the UK’s targets for lowering greenhouse gas outputs and combating climate change.
- Enhancement of Energy Security – Wind farms like Pencloe decrease the UK’s dependence on imported fuels, enhancing national energy security and providing a stable energy supply from a domestic, renewable source.
- Support for Economic Growth -The construction and operation of the wind farm will create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the local area. Additionally, by investing in renewable infrastructure, the UK is positioning itself as a leader in clean energy technology, encouraging further investment and innovation in the sector.
- Contribution to National Renewable Energy Targets – The Pencloe Wind Farm will play a vital role in helping the UK achieve its ambitious renewable energy targets, contributing to the goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
- Promotion of Sustainable Development – By utilising wind as a clean energy source, the farm supports sustainable development practices that balance ecological preservation with technological advancement and community welfare.
The Pencloe Wind Farm represents a crucial addition to the UK’s renewable energy landscape, demonstrating a commitment to a greener future and supporting the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
Powersystems, alongside RJ McLeod, is proud to contribute to this effort, embodying a harmonious blend of engineering excellence and a commitment to sustainable progress.
As Invenergy LLC continues to champion renewable energy, Powersystems looks forward to delivering this project with the dedication and expertise that has become their hallmark, enhancing the landscape of Scotland’s renewable energy future.
Notes to Editors:
Contact Information:
- This article is written by Jules Daly, Marketing and Communications Manager at Powersystems.
- Email jules.daly@powersystemsuk.com Telephone 01454 318000
- Photography Copyright please credit all images used to powersystemsuk.co.uk
Powersystems are powering the transition to a carbon free future
Powersystems is a leading high voltage specialist electrical engineering company with over 48 years of experience. Renowned for its expertise and reliability, Powersystems has become a trusted provider of design, installation, and commissioning services for electrical infrastructure and grid connections across the UK.
As the first Lloyds National Electricity Registration Scheme accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP), Powersystems has been delivering contestable grid connections at voltages up to 132 kV for 28 years.
Since 2000, Powersystems has successfully connected over 6.1 gigawatts of renewable energy to the UK electricity grid. Our projects span many sectors from onshore and offshore wind, solar energy, tidal and hydroelectric power, electric vehicle infrastructure, as well as generation installations for short-term operating reserves (STOR), combined heat and power (CHP), grid stability initiatives such as rotating stabilisers, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and commercial industrial private wire networks.
In collaboration with partners, Powersystems has connected 30% of all onshore wind farms in the UK, contributing significantly to the nation’s renewable energy capacity to collectively work towards a sustainable future to help the UK achieve Net Zero by 2050.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our integrated management systems, which are ISO accredited, and our rigorous approach to health and safety under the ‘Priority No.1’ brand, ensuring best practices across the industry.
Powersystems UK Ltd. is an employee-owned business that values the well-being of its employees, fostering an environment where innovation is encouraged, and everyone is empowered to share ideas and contribute to the company’s success.
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