Dunamis has supported Lightsource bp in the design and construction of high-voltage electrical infrastructure for the Tiln Farm Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System projects in Retford, Nottinghamshire.
Dunamis, an independent connection provider (IDP) specializing in high-voltage grid connections and networks, designed and supplied a 132KV substation for the project. She also managed the grid connection to the grid operator, which was subsequently taken over.
Stuart Weatherston, division director at Dunamis, said: “We are exceptionally proud of our strong relationship with Lightsource bp and having secured another major contract through tender to support the growth of its solar portfolio.
“Our specialist high-voltage capabilities and track record in the solar sector mean we are well positioned to successfully deliver this project in support of a pioneering project such as Tiln Farm for such a high-profile developer and operator.”
The collaboration between the companies builds on a long-term relationship. Dunamis was able to win the contract with Lightsource bp through a competitive tender process.
Lightsource bp’s Tiln Farm Solar project has an output capacity of 61 MWp and will be the first of the company’s projects to use n-type tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) modules, a type of panel that uses a different mix of materials used to reduce material losses and improve efficiency. A further £560,000 will be allocated to implement a bespoke biodiversity management plan.
Graham Dolamore, head of construction at Lightsource bp, said: “Throughout project delivery, Dunamis has demonstrated exceptional agility and flexibility in tackling the challenges of the global supply chain. The expert engineers proactively adjusted the design and construction program for the high-voltage systems, minimizing the impact on the overall project timeline.
“This flexibility allowed the systems to be built quickly, with delayed components added on site as they became available, minimizing delays as much as possible. Dunamis’ high-voltage capabilities, project management and site management contributed to the safe and successful delivery of our first co-located Solar and BESS project worldwide.”
Lightsource bp’s first UK battery energy storage system (BESS) was powered in Tiln in February. This month a proposal was outlined for the financing, development and construction of a 57MW solar and 54MW co-located energy storage facility in County Meath, ROI.