Edina delivers 10.3MWe flexible generation energy centre for Conrad Energy
Independent Power Producer Conrad Energy is supporting the energy transition with its latest flexible generation power plant Witham Energy Centre, delivered by distributed energy solutions provider Edina.
Key benefits
Maintains UK security of power supply
Supports the growth of renewable technologies onto the grid
Repurposes unused land
Flexible Generation
Witham Energy Centre will assist towards controlling the balancing service by providing the National Grid and the District Network Operator (DNO), UK Power Networks, with access to extra power in the form of readily available flexible generation to be able to manage unforeseen demand increase and/or fluctuations to mainstream generation.
With the increasing penetration of intermittent renewables in the system, coupled with the ongoing retirement of large thermal plant, there is an increasing need for reserve power to balance the National Grid, whilst allowing more renewables to be integrated into the system.
Edina’s MWM engines provide fast-responding dispatchable power to support grid stability by balancing supply and demand variations within the electricity network.
Witham Energy Centre joins Conrad Energy’s growing portfolio of over 80 flexible generation projects in the UK.
Scope of Works
As part of the tender specification, Edina provided a two phased approach.
Phase One included the detailed design, and enabling works including site layout drawings, specifications for high voltage switchgear and the acoustic building. Civil works design, and survey works including a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Topographical Survey.
Phase Two included the supply, installation, commissioning, and testing of the 10.3MWe flexible generation plant.
Witham Energy Centre comprises six high efficiency, fast start, and hydrogen enabled MWM gas reciprocating engines. Four TCG 3020 V20 gas engines rated 2,179kWe and two TCG 3016 V16 rated 800kWe.
Project Challenges
Site access presented numerous challenges. The site was located through a local housing estate and via an 800-metre single-track road used by residents to access the town and nearby allotment site. Edina ensured timed deliveries, and residents were advised of busy delivery periods to minimise disruption and maintain appropriate health and safety standards.
Two rail tracks operated by Network Rail backed onto the site boundary. The proximity of rail assets meant all designs and RAMS were issued to Network Rail for approval before works could proceed, potentially delaying the project. Edina supplied all project documentation and clearly defined the equipment installed, its operation, and the installation process to expedite the site works.
Restrictions to site access prevented the gas engines from being installed within each containerised enclosure. A bespoke building was built and erected, and then each genset was delivered with all auxiliary equipment, pipework, and cabling on site.
Why is Flexible Generation needed?
Flexible generation is required to balance, complement, and grow intermittent renewable generation as part of the UK’s pathway to decarbonisation and energy security. Flexible generation projects, such as Witham Energy Centre provide fast response, short term flexibility in the electricity network by responding to demand when the wind isn’t blowing, and sun doesn’t shine.
The National Grid operates a Balancing Service to balance demand and supply and to ensure the security and quality of the electricity supply across its transmission system. It is responsible for managing and making critical adjustments to the supply and demand of electricity at each moment of the day by either implementing agreed stoppages to some electricity users supply and/or calling upon back-up flexible generation. Without such back-up capacity, the National Grid is at a real risk of achieving blackouts.
If you are looking to take control of your energy needs and produce power close to the point of use, we would love to hear about your project requirements and help power your future. If you would like to discuss your project, please contact us.
