The ABB-Mowlem consortium currently working on Network Rail's Southern power supply upgrade project has been given a further work package. Worth around £20 million, the work covers the renewal and upgrading of nine rail substations in Kent, including Depot-Gap works, as well as cable renewal for six feeders in Kent and two in Sussex. The work is scheduled for completion in May 2005.
The existing substation switchgear will be replaced with ABB's new ZX1.2 metal-clad gas-insulated medium voltage switchgear which has gained technical acceptance from ENA (the Energy Networks Association) and Network Rail, for use at 33kV for ratings up to 31.5kA and 2000A.
SOUTHERN POWER UPGRADE PROJECT
In 2003 the ABB-Mowlem consortium signed a seven-year framework agreement with Network Rail for the upgrade of power supplies in the Kent area, as well as some additional sites in the Inner London area. The work, on the busiest commuter lines in the country, is essential to allow the introduction of 2,025 new, more comfortable carriages and the phasing out of existing Mk1 rolling stock. The consortium, which includes ABB Power Technologies and Mowlem Railways, combines ABB's strength in substation project management, engineering, construction and power technology products with Mowlem’s experience in major civil and electrical construction projects.