Victoria Square - Case Study
 OverviewÂ
East Solutions were approached by ThamesWey to carry out the supply and installation of a new high voltage distribution network as part of a major redevelopment in the heart of Woking Surrey. The project, known as Victoria Square, would involve completely transforming the existing town centre, providing the community with new retail units, restaurants, public spaces and a multi-storey car park. As the main HV contractor for the project, East Solutions would be tasked with creating the backbone of the entire electrical system that would power the new development.
 Project Facts   Â
 SolutionÂ
To ensure that the new network was compliant with current laws and regulations and fit for purpose, our in-house Technical Department first verified all design documents before commencing any on-site work. To secure continuous supply in the event of connection faults, East Solutions completed contestable works for the new DNO dual connection substation that would feed onto the private network of the customer.
The client’s vision for an environmentally conscious network was a top priority throughout the installation of all seven new substations. Each customer substation was installed with 11kV RMU, Midel Transformer and Form4 LV switchboards, which aligned with the client’s sustainable objectives. Two additional substations equipped with dual transformers and extended switchgear were installed offering the client with a range of benefits, including increased power capacity, improved efficiency, and increased reliability ensure continuity of service in the event of a fault, or planned maintenance. The new network was designed to feed into an on-site energy centre, which contained an 11kV 11way multi-panel, vacuum, Genie Evo switchboard, also installed by East Solutions. The CHP energy centre would eventually supply the site via a private wire.
Prior to handing over the project to the client, East Solutions’ in-house SAP organised and deployed a full commissioning team to test and ensure that the equipment met the required standards and worked well before energisation.
Throughout the project, a dedicated project manager and coordinator oversaw the key milestones, timelines, and deliverables. Regular communication and collaboration between the manufacturer, civil contractors, and the client were maintained to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Overall, East Solutions expertise and attention to detail ensured the successful completion of the project within the set timeframe and budget while meeting the sustainability objectives of the client.
 ChallengesÂ
The construction of the 11kV network included a complex ringed design, which presented considerable challenges as it involved a long-interconnected cable route, which was connected to an existing 11kV network. This had to be laid and worked on at different levels. posing several difficulties, which required meticulous planning and coordination with the civil contractors.
East Solutions involvement in the project began shortly before the pandemic started. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions, East Solutions was able to adapt to changing circumstances while ensuring that client satisfaction remained a top priority. East Solutions remained committed to delivering the project on time and within budget.
Working on a large construction site with several hundred people daily required thorough planning, communication and coordination with all parties involved. It was crucial to ensure that the project was carried out in a safe and efficient manner, without disrupting the ongoing activities at the construction site. East Solutions worked closely with the site management to ensure that all safety protocols were followed, and the schedule was adhered to strictly.
 The ResultsÂ
East Solutions played an important role in the redevelopment of Victoria Square. By contributing to the development of a new HV network, East Solutions helped ensure that the energy needs of the new commercial, residential, and retail spaces in the area would be met and that the infrastructure would be stable and able to adapt to future energy demands.