Battery Storage Systems Drainage Design Solutions
- National Grid, GTDS/Ethical Power Group, METKA
The Brief:
We collaborated with GTDS/Ethical Power Group and METKA, a key partner in the energy sector, to design drainage solutions for battery storage systems at one of their substations. This project required strict adherence to National Grid standards to ensure safe and efficient contractor operations during construction. The drainage design needed to effectively manage water runoff, safeguarding the site’s operations from disruptions.
Our mission wasn’t just to deliver a compliant design, but also to support our client in securing the necessary drainage permits during the planning phase. To achieve this, we worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including engineers and regulatory bodies, to ensure every aspect of the design met National Grid’s high standards.
Why the Client Chose Urban Water:
Our successful collaboration on a previous project, where we managed complex drainage requirements, established trust with GTDS/Ethical Power Group and METKA. This confidence led them to return to Urban Water for this more intricate substation project. Our reputation for timely delivery and precise work made us the natural choice for such a vital task.
We took the time to thoroughly understand the client’s needs, enabling us to swiftly identify potential challenges and tailor our solutions accordingly. This relationship, built on trust and competence, allowed us to approach the project fully prepared and instilled confidence in the client.
The Challenge:
This project presented several unique challenges, particularly coordinating with multiple on-site services, including structural engineers, electrical engineers, archaeologists, ecologists, Lead Local Flood Risk Authorities, and the Environment Agency. Each of these stakeholders had specific requirements that needed to be incorporated into the drainage design, necessitating intricate clash detection to prevent interference with other infrastructure. Accurate calculations were crucial to ensure existing systems, such as electrical cables, were not compromised.
Unforeseen site conditions arose early in the project, but our ability to quickly adapt and solve problems ensured minimal disruption to the schedule. We maintained smooth operations by keeping all parties working safely and efficiently, reinforcing our reputation for reliability under pressure.
The Urban Water Difference:
What sets Urban Water apart is not only our technical expertise but also our proactive, approachable working style. From the outset, we demonstrated our ability to anticipate challenges and offer clear, practical solutions. This reassured our client that they were in capable hands, allowing them to focus on other aspects of the project while we managed the complex drainage design.
We pride ourselves on maintaining open, transparent communication with all stakeholders. Whether liaising with third parties such as the Environment Agency, National Grid, METKA, or local councils, or supporting site teams, our responsiveness made the process smoother. Our honest, hands-on approach ensures that projects not only meet but exceed expectations.
The Outcome:
The drainage design was submitted on time, and GTDS/Ethical Power Group, along with METKA, was thoroughly impressed with the outcome. The development was supported by a site-specific Drainage Strategy, prepared to satisfy LLFA and planning authority requirements. The successful installation of the substation and battery units demonstrated our ability to deliver high-quality solutions under complex conditions.
Since this project, we’ve continued to work with the client on several more substation drainage projects, strengthening our commitment to being a reliable partner.
At Urban Water, we are:
- Committed to building lasting client relationships
- Focused on understanding our clients’ evolving needs and challenges
- Dedicated to building trust through consistent results and open communication
- Proud of our strong client loyalty and valuable word-of-mouth recommendations
Clients know they can rely on us, and that we genuinely care about their success.