Case Study

Keltbray – Limekiln Windfarm Connection Project

Client: SSEN Transmission (SSE Plc)
Project: Limekiln Windfarm Connection
Project Value: £10 Million
Role: Senior Quantity Surveyor
Duration: March 2022 – September 2022

Project Overview

Keltbray was awarded a £10 million contract by SSEN Transmission to deliver the design and construction of the windfarm connection at Limekiln, Caithness, in the Scottish Highlands. The project, which is critical to the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure, included the civil and electrical design and build of a 132kV substation and a 5km overhead line to connect the windfarm to SSEN’s existing substation at Dounreay.

As Senior Quantity Surveyor, Nicky was responsible for setting up and managing all commercial and financial aspects of the project, ensuring effective procurement and contract administration using the NEC 3 Option A form of contract.

Project Scope & Responsibilities

The scope of work for the Limekiln Windfarm Connection project included:

  • Construction of a 132kV substation, including foundations, building, mechanical and electrical installations, and all associated civil works.

  • Installation of a 5km 132kV overhead line supported by wood poles, with accompanying forestry works to clear the route for the transmission line.

  • Laying of 1km of 132kV cable from the overhead line to SSEN’s 132/275kV substation at Douneray.

  • Environmental management of the site to minimise the impact on the local environment and meet regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

In his role as Senior Quantity Surveyor, Nicky’s primary responsibilities included:

  • Commercial Management: Establishing all commercial management and financial reporting systems, ensuring full transparency and effective cost control throughout the project lifecycle.

  • Procurement: Leading the procurement of materials, subcontractor packages and services, ensuring all aspects were procured in line with budgetary constraints and project timelines.

  • Contract Administration: Administering the NEC 3 Option A contract, including managing variations, resolving commercial issues and ensuring compliance with the contract terms.

  • Risk Management: Identifying potential financial and contractual risks and implementing mitigation strategies to protect the project’s budget and schedule.

  • Financial Reporting: Regularly producing financial reports to track project expenditure, cost forecasting and project profitability.

Challenges & Solutions

  • Complex Procurement Needs: The project required the procurement of specialised electrical equipment and services under strict deadlines. By streamlining the procurement process and maintaining strong communication with suppliers and subcontractors, Nicky ensured that all materials were procured on time and within budget.

  • Environmental Constraints: Given the rural location of the project and the need to preserve local ecosystems, Nicky worked closely with the environmental management team to ensure all works were carried out in compliance with environmental regulations, particularly during forestry clearance for the overhead line.

  • NEC 3 Contract Administration: Managing the project under the NEC 3 Option A contract required rigorous contract administration to handle any variations, claims and adjustments, ensuring the project remained on track financially and logistically.

Results & Impact

  • Efficient Cost Management: By implementing robust financial systems early in the project, Nicky ensured cost-effective procurement and avoided budget overruns. The project remained within the allocated budget while maintaining high standards of delivery.

  • On-Schedule Delivery: The proactive management of subcontractors and materials ensured that the project proceeded according to schedule, with on-site construction beginning in July 2022 as planned and target energisation set for April 2024.

  • Enhanced Keltbray's Position in the Renewable Sector: The successful delivery of this project has been a key milestone in Keltbray’s strategy to become a major player in the UK Renewable Energy market.

Conclusion

The Limekiln Windfarm Connection project in Thurso, Scotland, showcases DMA’s expertise in renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in delivering complex, large-scale civil and electrical works. As Senior Quantity Surveyor, Nicky’s role in commercial management and procurement was integral to the project’s financial success and timely progression. This project not only contributes to the UK's renewable energy goals but also strengthens DMA’s position as a key player in the renewables sector.

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