West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven, part of North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC), is set to open its doors following a £40 million redevelopment. This milestone marks the practical completion of a new 55,860 square feet, two-storey extension built on to the hospital, delivered by GRAHAM through the
Bouygues UK and Stanmore College hosted a well-attended Groundbreaking ceremony on 12 September to celebrate the start of construction of the new college. Distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Harrow Salim Chowdhury, London Borough of Harrow Deputy Leader Marilyn Ashton and Councillor Zak Wagman, as well as representatives from Harrow
Rolec and Sinexcel partnered in 2022, to deliver high-quality, scalable, and reliable DC charging products, dedicated to operational excellence, accessibility, and innovation. The partnership has set the standard in providing economical ultra-rapid charging solutions. Since partnering over two years ago, Rolec and Sinexcel have achieved remarkable success with the installation
The Gym Group is forging ahead with its ambitious growth strategy, targeting the opening of around 50 new gyms over the next three years, according to its CEO, Will Orr. In its latest interim results, the company revealed that four new gyms had already opened in the first half of
Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, has officially reached completion at its new development on Regiment Way in Chelmsford. Launching later this year, The Beacons – Arthur Ashby Court will be offering one and two-bedroom apartments for people over 55 comprising a
Software plays a vital role in 21st Century construction, helping modernise the industry, improve efficiencies, and deliver better project results. From the initial design process to eco-friendly practices, software is the cornerstone of modern construction, creating new jobs and fresh opportunities for a rapidly evolving workforce. Design and Innovation Design
Clowes Developments have assembled a first-class team to deliver quality warehouse and industrial units at Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington. Clowes, together with their team have the expertise to develop units to satisfy small to medium sized businesses but also have the ability to deliver projects on a
One of the Midlands largest housing associations in partnership with one of the UK’s top house builders have been crowned winners in a leading awards scheme. Platform Housing Group and Keepmoat have been awarded the Property Deal of the Year category in this year’s East Midlands Property Dinner organised by
Esh Construction has completed two key active travel projects in Rotherham designed to make it safer and more convenient for pedestrians and cyclists to travel into and around the town centre. Known as Sheffield Road Cycleways and Maltby Bus Corridor and delivered on behalf of Rotherham Council, the scheme will
With the offshore wind industry rapidly deploying scaled-up turbines – swelling from 2MW versions in 2000 to potential 20MW+ variants by 2030 – new operations and maintenance (O&M) challenges threaten to undermine profitability, efficiency, and safety in the sector. At the same time, an aging fleet of wind farms now
West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven, part of North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC), is set to open its doors following a £40 million redevelopment. This milestone marks the practical completion of a new 55,860 square feet, two-storey extension built on to the hospital, delivered by GRAHAM through the ProCure22 framework. The state-of-the-art facility incorporates up to 70% modern methods of construction, demonstrating a successful integration of innovative building techniques into healthcare infrastructure. The building features specialised wards and units that cater to a diverse range of healthcare needs, including: The building integrates advanced medical facilities with patient-centric design to enhance both the quality of care and the overall patient experience. It includes private therapeutic outdoor courtyards and dedicated family spaces for private meetings and consultations. Chief Executive, Lyn Simpson for NCIC, said: “I’m really proud of everyone who has brought this project to life over the last four years, none more so than our own staff who have been integral in getting the right design approved and over the line for their patients. This will make a huge difference to our patient experience. We hope our patients and visitors and the rest of Team NCIC will agree this is has been a great project and certainly worth all the hard work. Well done to everyone involved!” Peter Reavey, Regional Director at GRAHAM, commented: “We’re proud to have been part of this transformative project. The new facilities at West Cumberland Hospital will greatly improve the provision of healthcare services locally. Using modern methods of construction, we’ve delivered a building that not only meets but exceeds current healthcare standards.” West Cumberland Hospital’s new extension is expected to be fully operational by the end of September, with all services moved in and ready to serve the community. GRAHAM was awarded this contract following the successful delivery of the Trust’s cancer treatment centre in Carlisle. For more information on GRAHAM, please visit: www.graham.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bouygues UK and Stanmore College hosted a well-attended Groundbreaking ceremony on 12 September to celebrate the start of construction of the new college. Distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Harrow Salim Chowdhury, London Borough of Harrow Deputy Leader Marilyn Ashton and Councillor Zak Wagman, as well as representatives from Harrow Council and The Department for Education (DfE) attended the ceremony, highlighting the significance of this transformative project. Bouygues UK has been appointed by the DfE to undertake the construction of the new Stanmore College under the CF21 Framework. Funded by the DfE’s Further Education Improvement Programme, the project involves the reconfiguration of the college’s existing site, replacing four outdated buildings with four state-of-the-art new builds. The construction is set to be completed by summer 2027. Bouygues UK brings a proven track record of delivering high-quality, sustainable, and inspiring learning environments. Utilising its standardised ‘kit of parts’ approach for the build, the contractor aims to integrate net-zero principles to ensure flexibility, affordability, sustainability, reduced ongoing maintenance, and certainty of price and programme. In alignment with their commitment to the education sector, Bouygues UK will induct its first cohort of T Level students into Design Surveying and Planning internships. Developed in collaboration with the social enterprise Class Of Your Own, these internships are part of the award-winning “Design Engineer Construct!” learning programme, which immerses future professionals in cutting-edge projects. Phillippa Prongué, Managing Director for London and the South East at Bouygues UK, expressed her enthusiasm for the project in her welcome speech: “We’re excited to reach this milestone and be part of this important project for the DfE. The new facility will transform the campus and provide a great learning environment for future students. Our approach will ensure that the build is both sustainable and adaptable, meeting the educational needs of today while being mindful of future demands. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on the local community.” Stanmore College Principal, Annette Cast, also shared her vision: “Stanmore College will provide a state-of-the-art inclusive learning campus in the heart of the Stanmore community that will ensure all local people can benefit from the best possible education and training to enable them to achieve the best employability skills. The College will be an educational hub providing a unique educational destination for local people to acquire the relevant skills, training and education to support them to access and build their career ambitions. The learning campus will be a flexible and accessible place where staff, students, employers and stake holders can gather, interrogate, learn, gain skills and progress as well as become a lifetime member of an inclusive learning community.” The Mayor of Harrow Salim Chowdhury stated that: “Stanmore College has always been a cornerstone in the community. Redevelopment will enhance in that role and will finally place the College in the heart of Stanmore and beyond.” The groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone in the journey towards creating a cutting-edge educational environment at Stanmore College, underscoring the collaborative efforts and shared commitment of all stakeholders involved. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rolec and Sinexcel partnered in 2022, to deliver high-quality, scalable, and reliable DC charging products, dedicated to operational excellence, accessibility, and innovation. The partnership has set the standard in providing economical ultra-rapid charging solutions. Since partnering over two years ago, Rolec and Sinexcel have achieved remarkable success with the installation of UltraCharge 160 units for several high-profile clients, including Porsche, Rolls Royce, Edinburgh City Council, Collins Earthworks, and Yorkshire Ambulance Services. Building on the strength and success of their ongoing partnership, Rolec and Sinexcel are excited to launch the UltraCharge 30, the most compact and affordable 30kW DC rapid charger coming to the market. Purpose-built and designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses, councils, fleets, and destinations. Introducing the UltraCharge 30: a versatile, future-proof EV charging solution, whether wall or pedestal-mounted, the unit offers up to 30kW power output in a space-efficient design. Delivering up to 10-80% charge in under 1.5 hours. With 96% peak efficiency, it optimises energy use, speeding up charging times and maximising ROI. It’s beneficial for sites looking to integrate a robust and rapid EV infrastructure. The UltraCharge 30 features the same trusted controller used in the popular UltraCharge 160, ensuring both reliability and performance. Its competitive pricing makes it an accessible option, minimising upfront costs while providing ease of installation. It combines proven technology with modern advancements to deliver a powerful and cost-effective solution. Compliant with the PAS 1899 accessible charging standard, it’s an ideal solution for destinations where accessibility is essential for serving a diverse customer base. Caravan parks, holiday parks, theme parks, hotels, resorts, shopping centres, sports stadiums, and more should prioritise meeting accessibility regulations. Businesses can offer pay-to-charge solutions and benefit from generating additional revenue. Activation is simple via ISO 15118 plug & charge, mobile app, and RFID, or with the added convenience of an optional contactless payment terminal. Designed with the latest features, it supports dynamic power management, over-the-air updates, an 8” HD user interface touch screen with advertising capability, and is compatible with any OCPP 1.6 CPMS, which is upgradable to OCPP 2.0.1. The UltraCharge 30 features a CCS2 charging connector for fast and reliable compatibility with a wide range of electric vehicles. For seamless operation and data management, the unit supports both 4G and Ethernet connectivity methods, ensuring consistent communication and control. Businesses can benefit from bespoke branding and colour options, whether it’s adding a logo or creating a fully custom design. Businesses who want to provide public EV charging have the option to fully fund the purchase and installation of 30kW DC units through Rolec’s strategic partnership with funding provider, Wattif. This allows businesses to benefit from implementing the latest EV infrastructure without capital expenditure or investment risk. The unit is available for preorder now, with deliveries available from early November.Speaking on the product, Frankie Mellon, Rolec’s Managing Director, said:“I am thrilled to introduce the UltraCharge 30, a major step forward in delivering compact, cost-effective DC charging solutions. This unit is designed to supply rapid charging at an accessible price, with a focus on accessibility for all users. The UltraCharge 30 builds on the success of its big brother, the UltraCharge 160, offering the same tried-and-tested technology in a smaller, very affordable package. We’ve worked closely with Sinexcel to ensure this product is equipped to meet the many requirements of the UK market, such as contactless payment and PAS 1899 accessible charging standard compliance. It also supports ISO 15118 plug & charge for seamless convenience and is future-proof with OCPP 2.0.1 upgradability. The UltraCharge 30 is easy to install and maintain, with full support provided by both Rolec and Sinexcel’s technical teams. As workplaces increasingly demand both DC and AC charging solutions for fleets, visitors, and employees, we offer a reliable and affordable product with a short lead time. Stocked in the UK by Rolec, available for next-day delivery to our UK customers starting later this year.” Charles Meng, Head of Charging Solutions at Sinexcel, commented: “We see our ongoing partnership with Rolec as a significant milestone toward achieving our shared vision. As we’ve deepened our relationship, we’ve become more aligned on common goals. Sinexcel admires Rolec’s steadfast commitment to zero emissions. Their team is professional and precise, consistently impressing us with their deep expertise in the EV charging industry and their drive for innovation. Our team’s visits to Boston since forming this partnership have been both engaging and productive, leading to exciting new aspirations. We’re thrilled to launch the UltraCharge 30 together. We take pride in such exceptional products and are confident that the UltraCharge 30 will be well-received in the UK and EU EV charging sectors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Gym Group is forging ahead with its ambitious growth strategy, targeting the opening of around 50 new gyms over the next three years, according to its CEO, Will Orr. In its latest interim results, the company revealed that four new gyms had already opened in the first half of the year, with locations in London Euston, Welwyn Garden City, Orpington, and Manchester. Since then, an additional three gyms have launched, bringing the total new openings to seven for 2024. With a strong development pipeline in place, The Gym Group has secured sites that will allow it to open between 10 and 12 new locations by the end of the year, in line with its previous forecasts. Orr also highlighted the partnership with property agent Savills, which is set to deliver 15 to 20 new sites in 2025, further accelerating the company’s expansion efforts. This growth comes amid a period of robust financial performance for The Gym Group. The company reported a 12% year-on-year increase in revenue for the six months ending 30 June 2024, reaching £112.1 million. It also returned to profitability, posting an adjusted pre-tax profit of £0.5 million, a significant turnaround from a £5.2 million loss in the same period the previous year. Looking ahead, The Gym Group expects to achieve a like-for-like revenue growth of 5-6% for 2024. Additionally, with a newly signed £90 million three-year bank facility, the company is well-positioned to continue its expansion, funded through free cash flow. Will Orr commented: “Our positive trading momentum in the first half reflects the early success of our ‘Next Chapter’ strategy, introduced in March. Membership, revenue, and profit have all increased, and our market-leading offering is resonating more than ever in a growing sector. We’re confident in our ability to deliver strong results for the full year, and our plans for the autumn trading period are firmly in place.” With the future looking bright, The Gym Group is not only focused on expanding its footprint but also on solidifying its market leadership in the fast-growing fitness sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, has officially reached completion at its new development on Regiment Way in Chelmsford. Launching later this year, The Beacons – Arthur Ashby Court will be offering one and two-bedroom apartments for people over 55 comprising a mix of shared ownership and rental properties. The completion of the development will provide a total of 82 flats across four floors with communal facilities including a reception area, lounge, café, hair and beauty salon, wellness room and training room. Joanne Giles, Anchor’s Head of New Homes and Customer Care, said: “The official completion of The Beacons marks a large and very exciting step for Anchor as this exciting new development is a key step in helping Anchor to achieve its vision of creating 500 homes a year over a rolling ten-year period. The development will offer residents the very best of independent living, providing homes where people can continue to love living in later life.” Excellent connectivity and amenities make Chelmsford and The Beacons the perfect place for later living. There is ample greenery at your doorstep and all grocery stores close at hand. The proximity to London also offers residents the option to have an exciting day trip into the UK’s capital. Anchor has a strong development programme and is looking ahead to opening a number of new sites in the coming months. Locations include Rochester and Stockport, both of which will provide shared ownership and rental properties with excellent communal facilities. To find out more about Anchor’s new sites, please visit: https://www.anchornewhomes.org.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Software plays a vital role in 21st Century construction, helping modernise the industry, improve efficiencies, and deliver better project results. From the initial design process to eco-friendly practices, software is the cornerstone of modern construction, creating new jobs and fresh opportunities for a rapidly evolving workforce. Design and Innovation Design and innovation have moved from traditional times when the construction industry relied on blueprints and drawings to bring a project to life. Nowadays, you are more likely to view a proposed structure as a 3D model before any physical site work begins. This enhanced method of design and visualisation is also supported by the growing presence of virtual reality and augmented reality tools, sparking a new period of digital software innovation and career opportunities. These new technologies allow designers and project managers to visualise exactly what a building or structure will look like before a brick has been laid and allow stakeholders to take a virtual stroll through the structure. Project Management One of the biggest advantages of software in the construction industry is its ability to enhance project management. Cloud-based solutions like construction enterprise resource planning (ERP) software help streamline processes and improve efficiencies across multiple teams so that projects run on time and within budget. Another transformative technology in construction is supply chain management software, which offers a range of functionalities, from tracking the flow of materials to managing invoices and costs. The development of ERP and supply chain management software represents key growth sectors in today’s construction industry. Communication and Collaboration Clear communication and strong collaboration are essential in any successful construction project. Thanks to continued investment and the evolving development of modern software and apps, communication between construction teams has never been better. Communication software keeps everyone in the loop and on the same page at every stage of the construction process. Any pinch points can be quickly identified and resolved so that problems resulting from poor communication are avoided. This not only delivers greater efficiencies for building firms, but it can also help reduce labour and other operational costs. AI and Data Analytics Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics can transform most industries, and they’re already having a powerful impact on the construction world. These dynamic software tools can analyse every aspect of a construction project and provide data-driven information on which parts are working well and which are not. Using this data combined with advanced tools, construction firms can adjust their outlooks and address specific issues to maximise efficiencies across the business, identify bottlenecks, and ultimately increase profit margins. AI is only set to create more opportunities in the future, with the market expected to grow from £16.8 billion to £801.6 billion by 2023, with construction poised to harness the benefits that brings. Automation and Smart Machines Automation has already replaced many manual, repetitive tasks in construction. But this ingenious feature of many software platforms will have an even greater influence in years to come, creating an abundance of opportunities for developers and engineers alike. By letting the software automate certain tasks, such as data manipulation, the whole sector can see productivity gains. Similarly, drone technology allows construction teams to accurately monitor and assess buildings and structures to provide a clear and detailed picture for site managers. They can inspect sites from the air to identify problems that would be difficult to spot from the ground and provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are dangerous to reach. Not only does this create a safer environment, but drone software can produce real-time data to increase efficiencies and boost productivity. Advanced Sensor Technology Sensor technology has made huge progress and continues to do so, relaying essential information back to project managers to act upon. These state-of-the-art sensors can be embedded into construction materials and equipment where they detect defects and structural weaknesses and give vital feedback on everything from air quality to the movement of site vehicles. By continuously monitoring the building process, firms can spot potential risks early and take appropriate action to reduce the probability of accidents or injury. Similarly, construction companies are harnessing the advantages of IoT, or the Internet of Things, referring to the vast network of interconnected devices and apps that collect important data. This enables teams to monitor multiple aspects such as temperature and humidity as well as fuel and energy consumption to ensure maximum efficiencies across a project. Eco-friendly Solutions Like most industries, construction has a responsibility to reduce its negative impact on the environment for a more sustainable future in line with the UK government’s Net Zero 2050 target. With so many materials required for a project and so much waste produced, firms are under renewed pressure to adopt greener and more sustainable ways of working. Construction software helps teams identify where improvements can be made to reduce waste, improve efficiencies, and lower their carbon footprint. Not only that, but this technology ensures maximum benefits are gained from any materials used on a project to create greener buildings and structures for all as well as a variety of career software development opportunities. As you can see, technology is a driving force in construction already, and many sectors of the industry rely on it to achieve maximum efficiencies, streamline projects, and create safer and more sustainable working environments, buildings, and structures. As systems and techniques continue to evolve, a new world of career opportunities in construction software development and delivery will open up too. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clowes Developments have assembled a first-class team to deliver quality warehouse and industrial units at Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington. Clowes, together with their team have the expertise to develop units to satisfy small to medium sized businesses but also have the ability to deliver projects on a national scale. A tried and tested professional services team made up of IMA Architects, lead construction contractor, TanRo, Millwards engineers, and employers’ agent, Postins Project Services will deliver the exceptional mixed-use development which will include industrial units ranging in size from 1,500 to 45,000 sq ft Stud Brook Business Park will also provide onsite convenient amenity which will benefit on site workforces and residents alike. Agents, FHP Property Consultants and NG Chartered Surveyors have been appointed to lead on the marketing of the site. A winning combination, indeed. TanRo are committed to achieving a BREEAM score of ‘Excellent’ and an EPC rating of ‘A’ across units 2-7 at Stud Brook Business Park on behalf of Clowes Developments in line with the group’s environmental, social and governance strategy. Some of the necessary steps to achieve these goals include providing enhanced recycling and waste storage solutions, installation of photovoltaic enhanced roofs with the ability to take full capacity of solar PV panels, electric vehicle charging points and a heavy investment in landscaping across the site. Units 2-7 will be delivered as Net Zero Ready with the capacity for occupiers to be Net Zero in Operation. James Richards, Development Director at Clowes Developments added, “Clowes are committed to delivering a first-rate business park in Castle Donington. The mixed-use development will bring a combination of employment & amenity, units to the area which we anticipate will boost the local economy and benefit the neighbouring residents with appropriate convenience offering.” Parties interested to learn more about the leasehold opportunities are invited to contact the sites agents, FHP Property Consultants and NG Chartered Surveyors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of the Midlands largest housing associations in partnership with one of the UK’s top house builders have been crowned winners in a leading awards scheme. Platform Housing Group and Keepmoat have been awarded the Property Deal of the Year category in this year’s East Midlands Property Dinner organised by Insider Media. The awards aim to recognise and champion the very best real estate, construction and design in the East Midlands. The joint entry focussed on the sale of a site of 604 residential dwellings by Boots Properties Limited to Keepmoat and the simultaneous subsale of land for 319 homes to Platform Housing Group for construction by Keepmoat of affordable housing alongside homes for sale. The transaction comprises a significant part of the 286 acre Nottingham Enterprise Zone and Walgreen Boots Alliance campus, which formed part of the health and pharmacy chains operational headquarters where it developed and manufactured ibuprofen painkillers during the 1960s. The deal is a true Nottingham born success story, linking a historical industrial site from Nottingham’s largest employer with the local offices of one of the country’s most successful housebuilders and one of the Midlands largest housing associations. The legal teams were exclusively drawn from Nottingham based law firms, Geldards LLP, acting for Boots; Freeths LLP, acting for Keepmoat and Browne Jacobson LLP, acting for Platform. Boots were represented by well known Nottingham agent Tim Garratt from Black Star Advisory. The large scale regeneration project will see Keepmoat deliver more than 600 high quality, multi tenure new homes over a period of six years, with construction due to complete in 2029. The winners were unveiled at a ceremony on Thursday 5 September at the East Midlands Conference Centre, one of the Midlands prime conference venues in Nottingham. Kate Ellison, Director of Land, Partnerships and Business Development at Platform Housing Group said: “We are absolutely delighted to win this award. Due to the insolvency of the previous developer, the transaction had to be completed from a standing start in only a little over eight weeks and required a herculean collaborative effort from all parties involved. With challenging planning, environmental and legal issues to overcome, the transaction was only possible as a result of the passion and drive of the highly skilled and dedicated teams within each of the parties involved to make the scheme a reality.” Boots has occupied the site for almost 100 years and the development supports its’ desire for a positive legacy for the former industrial site, and Keepmoat and Platform’s ongoing commitments to sustainability with high quality, energy efficient homes that have innovative solar electricity tech panels and air source heat pumps installed with a further aspiration for a number of homes to benefit from ‘zero bills.’ Charlotte Goode, Divisional Chair at Keepmoat said: “The whole team at Keepmoat are extremely proud to be part of this transformative project, which not only delivers high quality, energy efficient homes but also preserves the legacy of the site’s historical past. This award is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of both Keepmoat and Platform Housing Group, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this development will have on the local community and the region.” Gabor Taller, Partner at Browne Jacobson said: “I am so pleased that the Platform and Keepmoat teams are getting the recognition they richly deserve for pulling together this landmark deal for the region. Like Platform, Browne Jacobson is on a mission to drive positive change and is committed to help tackle society’s biggest challenges in a meaningful way; is therefore genuinely rewarding to be involved in this strategic project which will deliver sustainable, quality, affordable homes with a unique design and leave a legacy for the site’s historical past.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Esh Construction has completed two key active travel projects in Rotherham designed to make it safer and more convenient for pedestrians and cyclists to travel into and around the town centre. Known as Sheffield Road Cycleways and Maltby Bus Corridor and delivered on behalf of Rotherham Council, the scheme will provide Rotherham’s residents with more opportunities to undertake journeys by bus, walking and cycling in line with the active travel initiative. The Sheffield Road Cycleways project has delivered over 2km of new cycle routes on the A6178 Sheffield Road and Westgate between the town centre and the borough boundary at Tinsley. The route will provide a near seamless connection for cycling from beyond Meadowhall through to the Broom area. Maltby Bus Corridor has seen the installation of 2.8km of new bus lanes and new signalised junctions with pedestrian crossings along the 8-mile route from Rotherham to Maltby. The bus corridor will bypass areas of congestion on the A631 route into the town centre and enable faster and more reliable services, particularly those linking Maltby to Rotherham and onwards to Sheffield city centre, Magna and Meadowhall. As part of its Constructing Local strategy, Esh re-invested £1.3 million in the South Yorkshire region through responsible procurement on the Sheffield Road Cycleways and Maltby Bus Corridor project. Esh Construction also provided 479 hours of school engagement through its partnership with Better Learners Better Workers and RNN Academy for the Rotherham project. A total of 97 apprentice weeks were delivered and seven local residents were employed to work directly on the scheme. Funding for the Sheffield Road Cycleways project and the Maltby Bus Corridor was secured via the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority with monies from the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With the offshore wind industry rapidly deploying scaled-up turbines – swelling from 2MW versions in 2000 to potential 20MW+ variants by 2030 – new operations and maintenance (O&M) challenges threaten to undermine profitability, efficiency, and safety in the sector. At the same time, an aging fleet of wind farms now require either repowering or intelligently modified O&M strategies, adding significant layers of complexity to their ongoing viability and financial success. These dual challenges are part of the focus of a new white paper released by Shoreline Wind; How Robust O&M Plans Boost the Profitability of Offshore Wind Farms. “The industry is at a crossroads. Larger turbines have increased energy production and reduced costs, but they’ve also introduced new O&M risks. A single failure in these larger turbines can lead to significant downtime and financial loss, an issue already seen in onshore, and now emerging offshore. Combined with aging assets, the need to review and update offshore O&M strategies is more vital than ever,” says Michael Bjerrum, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder at Shoreline Wind. The white paper explores how larger turbines require a more sophisticated approach to O&M as well as managing balance of plant, including maintenance of larger foundations, Offshore Substations and cables. Bigger turbines demand a seamlessly integrated O&M approach, where every component, must be meticulously evaluated and managed to avoid costly disruptions. Additionally, over 8GW of offshore wind farms are now more than a decade old – a figure expected to triple in the next four years. Asset owners need tailored O&M plans to cope with the numerous and nuanced technical issues experienced by older machines. On top of this, owners may have to manage these turbines themselves once the initial OEM service deal expires. Considering these twofold challenges, the paper advocates for early and proactive O&M planning that begins even before a wind farm is fully commissioned. As the scale of offshore projects increase, there is a growing overlap between construction and operations activities, making early O&M planning essential to avoid costly delays and ensure a smooth transition from construction to full operation. The paper simultaneously highlights the importance of adapting O&M to regional nuances and conditions, as new markets open up and the unique challenges presented by older assets become apparent. It offers guidance on how to tailor O&M plans to diverse geographies, accounting for differences in local conditions, climate, and supply chain constraints. In addition to larger turbine and aging asset challenges, Shoreline Wind’s white paper addresses several other critical topics, including: How Robust O&M Plans Boost the Profitability of Offshore Wind Farms is available to download at Shoreline Wind’s website. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
