Kergord 132/33kV Substation

BT Bell provided substation geotechnical design and civil engineering services for the landmark Kergord 132/33kV Substation development in Shetland.

Specifically, our engineering team delivered comprehensive site preparation, earthworks, and foundation solutions for this vital energy transmission hub. Furthermore, we provided continuous technical oversight to manage challenging peat ground conditions across the site footprint.

Substation Geotechnical and Civil Design Scope

Throughout the initial engineering phase, establishing a stable construction platform in deep peat required specialized ground assessment. Crucially, designing robust earthworks and retaining structures is essential to safeguard high-voltage electrical assets in remote environments.

Recently, key civil and geotechnical engineering deliverables for the Kergord project included:

  • Geotechnical Site Evaluation: Conducting detailed slope stability and peat slide risk assessments. Additionally, we engineered bespoke earthworks mitigation strategies across variable terrain.

  • Platform & Foundation Design: Specifying heavy-duty bulk cut-and-fill platforms for transformer compounds. Also, our team detailed reinforced concrete foundations to support heavy electrical plant.

  • Access & Surface Water Management: Engineering durable heavy haul roads to accommodate massive transformer deliveries. Simultaneously, we integrated sustainable surface water drainage networks to manage run-off.

Connecting Shetland to the National Grid

Historically, delivering major infrastructure in island locations presents significant geotechnical and logistical challenges. However, BT Bell’s practical engineering solutions ensured efficient delivery while minimizing environmental impact on peatlands.

Because of this, the completed facility plays a central role in connecting Shetland to the main Scottish electricity transmission network. As a result, the substation enables major renewable energy developments across the region. Ultimately, this project showcases our deep expertise in energy sector civil and geotechnical engineering. In conclusion, BT Bell remains committed to supporting essential net-zero energy infrastructure across the UK.

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