Kilwex successfully delivered the construction of major 110kV and 400kV substation facilities at Coolnabacky, Co. Laois, as part of the ESB Capital Projects Framework. The project comprised significant civil, structural, mechanical and electrical works, together with substantial contractor-designed elements.
The works were delivered in multiple phases to support ESB operational and commissioning requirements and to enhance the security and resilience of the electricity network serving Portlaoise and the surrounding region.
The 110kV substation building comprised an in-situ reinforced concrete raft foundation, structural steel frame, insulated precast concrete sandwich panels, architectural stone and insulated cladding, composite first-floor construction, insulated roof cladding and installation of an internal gantry crane.
The 400kV substation building incorporated reinforced in-situ concrete and structural steel construction, precast concrete sandwich panels, masonry slip finishes and a precast concrete roof system incorporating insulation, screed and waterproof membrane, together with an internal gantry crane.
Kilwex was responsible for a number of specialist contractor-designed elements, including structural steelwork detailing, precast concrete panels, 12-metre-high precast blast walls, transformer bases, precast stair cores and stairs, external fencing systems and the complete lighting design for both buildings.
The wider infrastructure works included LV building services, power, mechanical services, fire and security systems, earthing and lightning protection, extensive drainage infrastructure, settlement ponds, check dams, landscaping and earth berm construction. Works were carefully coordinated with ESB’s subsequent high-voltage electrical fit-out and commissioning activities.
Environmental protection was a key consideration throughout the project. Kilwex implemented ecological and water-quality controls, carried out regular environmental inspections and carefully managed construction activities to protect sensitive habitats and surrounding watercourses.
A comprehensive quality management regime was also implemented, including detailed Inspection and Test Plans, supplier audits, factory inspections, sample approvals and ongoing monitoring of specialist precast and structural elements.
The Coolnabacky project demonstrates Kilwex’s capability to deliver complex, multi-disciplinary energy infrastructure within live and highly regulated environments while maintaining stringent safety, quality, environmental and programme requirements.
