Substations and BESS Drainage Solutions
Chartered Drainage Engineers, Experts in Drainage Strategies
Electricity substations and battery energy storage systems (BESS) play pivotal roles in ensuring the reliability and stability of the electrical grid. These critical infrastructures need to function optimally, even in adverse weather conditions, to prevent disruptions to power supply.
At Urban Water, we provide comprehensive drainage service designs explicitly tailored for electricity substations and battery energy storage systems. Our dedicated team collaborates closely with our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle, beginning with the initial drainage design outline and extending through to construction. Our services encompass a wide range of offerings, including the development of drainage strategies, tender drainage drawings, detailed drainage drawings, sewer permit applications, environment agency permit applications, flood risk activity permits and comprehensive drainage plans for electricity substations and battery energy storage systems.
Our Drainage Strategy Report
With extensive experience in navigating the standards set by water companies, the Environment Agency, National Grid, and lead local flood authorities for sewerage system adoption, we ensure that our designs meet and exceed regulatory requirements. We leverage cutting-edge technology such as WINDES micro-drainage software and 2D modelling to achieve this.
How Do We Work?
We will get the available soil information from online databases and (if required) scope the soakaway tests.
You receive our drainage layouts based on expected infiltration rates and public sewer capacity.
You will be able to utilise our report to register or validate your planning application. We will support you through the planning process.
We will obtain quotes for soakaways, contact the local water company and agree the drainage design with the lead local flood authority.
Fully Approved by the LLFA
Compliant with the water company standards
Exceedance paths assessed
Maintenance schedule
Water quality assessment
All the network modelled using Windes.
Our Benefits
Our drainage system designs for electricity substations and battery energy storage systems.
We are a team of proactive engineers who work with developers and contractors to create drainage designs for electricity substations and battery energy storage systems that are sustainable and compliant with the latest regulations. We build long-standing partnerships with mechanical and electrical engineers, contractors, and developers.
We obtain your development’s drawings and topographical survey levels in mAOD and site location.
We consult the local water company, the lead local drainage authority and the local council and obtain their records to give the development more certainty on the approval.
We scope the soakaways. When required, we obtain quotes from our recommended contractors.
Our designs reflect the most suitable and sustainable drainage system for the soil type, and the quantity and quality of water.
Other Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is drainage essential in electricity substations and battery energy storage systems?
Water Intrusion Prevention
One of the primary reasons drainage is vital in substations and battery energy storage systems (BESS) is to prevent water intrusion. Water can cause severe damage to electrical equipment, leading to costly repairs and downtime. The consequences of water ingress include short circuits, corrosion, insulation breakdown, and even electrical fires. Effective drainage systems help divert rainwater and prevent it from pooling around sensitive equipment.
Protecting Critical Infrastructure
Electricity substations house transformers, switchgear, and other critical components. Battery energy storage systems contain valuable batteries and power electronics. These components are vulnerable to water damage, and any failure can have cascading effects on the electrical grid. Proper drainage safeguards these vital assets and ensures an uninterrupted power supply.
Minimising Environmental Impact
Besides safeguarding infrastructure, drainage also has an environmental dimension. Uncontrolled water runoff from substations and BESS can carry contaminants, such as oils and chemicals, into the environment. This can result in soil and water pollution, harming ecosystems and posing regulatory challenges. Proper drainage systems include measures to mitigate these environmental impacts, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
What are some effective drainage solutions for electricity substations and battery energy storage systems (BESS)?
There is a combination of different drainage designs which can be effective for electricity substations and battery energy storage systems.
i. Surface Drainage
ii. Perimeter Barriers
iii. Water Diversion and Collection
iv. Stormwater Management
v. Regular Maintenance
i. Surface Drainage
Surface drainage is the first line of defence against water ingress. Substations and BESS are typically built with sloping floors and graded surfaces to direct rainwater away from critical equipment. Additionally, the use of surface channels, gutters, and drains can channel water to designated collection points or stormwater systems.
ii. Perimeter Barriers
Installing perimeter barriers, such as retaining walls and berms, can further enhance drainage. These barriers can prevent water from infiltrating the facility’s boundaries, especially in flood-prone areas. Careful design and construction of these barriers are essential to ensure they can withstand extreme weather events.
iii. Water Diversion and Collection
Water diversion systems, like swales and ditches, can help manage rainwater on-site. These natural or engineered features direct water away from critical infrastructure and into collection basins or retention ponds. The collected water can then be treated or released safely into the environment.
iv. Stormwater Management
Integrating stormwater management practices into substations and BESS design is essential for sustainability. This includes the use of permeable pavements, sedimentation basins, and treatment systems to filter pollutants from runoff water before it leaves the facility.
V. Regular Maintenance
Proper drainage systems require routine inspection and maintenance. Leaves, debris, and silt can accumulate in drains and channels, causing blockages. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure drainage systems remain effective, especially during heavy rainfall or snowmelt events.
Q.3) What are the regulatory requirements for drainage designs in electricity substations and BESS in the UK?
Regulatory requirements for drainage designs in electricity substations and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the United Kingdom are essential to ensure the safety, environmental compliance, and overall reliability of these critical facilities. While specific requirements can vary based on location and the type of facility, here are some key regulatory considerations in the UK
Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR)
Facilities handling potential pollutants, such as oil and chemicals, must comply with the Environmental Permitting Regulations. This includes implementing measures to prevent pollution, managing surface water runoff, and obtaining the necessary permits from the Environment Agency or the relevant environmental authority.
Key regulatory requirements for drainage designs in electricity substations and BESS in the UK.
Flood Risk Management
Drainage designs must consider flood risk management regulations, especially in flood-prone areas. Compliance may involve elevating critical infrastructure above flood levels or installing flood defences.
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
The UK encourages using Sustainable Drainage Systems to manage surface water runoff in an environmentally friendly manner. SuDS aim to reduce flood risk, enhance water quality, and promote biodiversity. Facilities should incorporate SuDS principles where applicable.
Building Regulations
Drainage systems within substations and BESS may fall under Building Regulations, which set building and structure standards. Regulations related to drainage can include requirements for pipe sizing, drainage gradient, and wastewater disposal.
Sewer Adoption Agreements
For drainage systems connected to public sewers, facilities may need to enter into sewer adoption agreements with the local water company. These agreements outline the responsibilities for the design, construction, and maintenance of drainage connections to the public sewer network.
Local Planning Authorities
Local planning authorities often have their requirements for drainage designs, especially for new construction projects. These may include surface water management plans, flood risk assessments, and compliance with local planning policies.
Health and Safety Regulations
Drainage systems within substations and BESS must comply with health and safety regulations, particularly those related to electrical safety and access for maintenance personnel.
National Grid and Other Utilities Regulations
If the facility involves connections to the electrical grid or other utilities, there may be specific regulations governing the design and maintenance of utility infrastructure, including drainage.
