UK Power Networks (UKPN) has completed work to deliver a 15MW power supply at a Suffolk airbase, four months ahead of schedule.
The project is part of a £160 million Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) contract awarded to a Kier VolkerFitzpatrick joint venture in November 2018. The contract involves delivery of critical infrastructure at RAF Lakenheath to support the arrival of new US F35s in 2021.
Additional electrical capacity is needed to support new buildings at the site. The increased power supply is equivalent to the energy used to power more than 5,000 homes.
UKPN’s work has included installation of a 24km cable route across a railway, river and roads.
Ductwork and cabling were completed in early July and power is set to be available from September, over one year before it is required at the site.
Construction is also underway on a new substation to house critical equipment.
Mark Adolphus, UKPN’s director of connections, said: “Work is progressing well with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to deliver a safe and reliable 15MW power supply needed for buildings that will accommodate US Air Force F35 squadrons at RAF Lakenheath.
“The project is on track to be delivered months ahead of schedule, while minimising the impact on the base and the local community.”
UKPN coordinated the work with two county highways departments and worked with other utility providers on the route to minimise disruption to road users and residents.
The company also liaised closely with US 48 Fighter Wing Civil Engineering Squadron (48CES), based at RAF Lakenheath, to determine the additional capacity required.
Keith Maddison, DIO USVF programme director, said: “This work has gone incredibly smoothly. We are pleased that this complex power upgrade has been completed ahead of schedule so that all other construction can continue as planned.
“We are grateful to 48 Fighter Wing Civil Engineering Squadron and to UK Power Networks for working together to minimise disruption both to local residents and to those on the base.”