Project Overview
For around 10 years, Aureos has been supporting Thames Water with the replacement and upgrade of important electrical equipment across its sites. These sites include water and sewage treatment works, reservoirs and pumping stations, all of which rely on a safe and reliable power supply to keep operating. Through a long-standing framework arrangement, Thames Water can call on Aureos whenever electrical assets require replacement, upgrade or technical support.
When electrical equipment becomes old or no longer meets operational requirements, Thames Water contracts Aureos to assess the site and recommend the best solution. Aureos then manages the project from start to finish, including planning, design, installation, testing and commissioning.
Sector:
Water
Region:
UK-wide
Service:
HV electrical infrastructure upgrades and replacements
Client:
Thames Water
Over the past five years, Aureos has delivered 15 HV infrastructure upgrade projects for Thames Water across its operational network. These projects have included transformer replacements, switchgear upgrades, protection and control improvements and associated electrical works at water treatment works, sewage treatment works, reservoirs and booster stations.
One of the biggest challenges in this type of work is that the sites need to remain operational while upgrades are being carried out. Water treatment and wastewater facilities cannot simply shut down, so projects must be carefully planned to minimise disruption and maintain power supplies throughout the works.
Value Delivered Through a Long-Standing Relationship
The long-standing relationship with Thames Water has been built on a collaborative approach. Projects often begin with site visits to understand the condition of existing equipment and identify the most appropriate replacement solution. From there, Aureos coordinates procurement of specialist equipment, manages long manufacturing lead times, develops detailed installation programmes and plans outages around operational requirements. This approach has enabled Aureos to deliver a wide range of projects across Thames Water's estate while maintaining a strong safety record and earning repeat business.
Two examples of this type of work are the transformer upgrade at Fortis Green and Fobney Water Treatment Works:
Mini Case 1: Fortis Green HV Upgrade
At Fortis Green in London, Thames Water needed to replace two ageing transformers that were reaching the end of their working life. Aureos managed the full replacement project, including new protection equipment and associated electrical upgrades.
The site presented several challenges, including restricted access for delivering and installing the new transformers. The team worked with specialist contractors to safely remove the old equipment and position the new transformers in place. During installation, Aureos engineers identified a fault with one of the newly delivered transformers and arranged for it to be rectified before the equipment entered service.
The project was completed successfully, helping to improve the reliability of the site's electrical supply and ensuring the installation met Thames Water's current standards.
Marvin McKenzie, Electrical Technical Support Engineer at Thames Water, said:
"Absolute confidence in the Aureos team to conduct works professionally and knowledgeably, good attitude and likely to place more orders with Aureos going forward."
Mini Case 2: Fobney Water Treatment Works HV Upgrade
At Fobney Water Treatment Works, Aureos replaced two existing transformers with larger units to increase the site's electrical capacity and support future operational needs.
Because the site provides an essential service, there were concerns about maintaining power throughout the project. Aureos worked closely with Thames Water's operational teams to explain the planned approach and put contingency measures in place to provide additional reassurance.
Installing the new equipment was particularly challenging due to restricted access. The transformers had to be lifted over a 12-metre-high building and into position using specialist lifting equipment. The project also included upgrading electrical cables and carrying out testing and commissioning before the new equipment was brought into service.
The scheme was delivered safely, on time and within budget, providing Thames Water with increased capacity and a more modern electrical installation.
Long-Term Support for Thames Water
The Fortis Green and Fobney projects are examples of the ongoing work Aureos delivers for Thames Water. By helping to replace ageing electrical equipment before it fails, Aureos supports Thames Water in maintaining reliable services for its customers while improving the resilience of its infrastructure for the future.