Projects at the interface between a Distribution Network Operator and a Transmission Owner are never straightforward. Two organisations means two sets of governance structures, technical assurance requirements, and approval processes. And on Iver, the interface was made more challenging by the need for SSEN to deliver elements of NGET infrastructure itself.

Because of the technology constraints associated with GIS, SSEN needed to undertake ‘user self-build’ works for parts of the NGET-related scope. That meant SSEN demonstrating to NGET that its approach met NGET’s own technical, design and safety standard for assets that would ordinarily be designed, installed, tested and commissioned by the Transmission Owner.

Add the technical and safety complexity of upgrading SGTs and installing GIS within a live substation environment, and there was plenty to navigate.

The challenge meant both understanding these complex requirements, and meeting them in practice. Then, providing the evidence needed to demonstrate compliance.

We got to work.

We started by supporting SSEN’s day-to-day engineering interactions with NGET during the early development of the programme.

We helped navigate the practical and technical touchpoints between the two organisations as the scope of the SGT and GIS works developed, providing a clear line of technical and process advice as requirements evolved.

As the programme moved into design, our role became more focused. We reviewed the relevant NGET policies and procedures, and advised SSEN on how to structure and evidence its approach.

The aim was straightforward: to help ensure the self-build route for the GIS-related works remained achievable while addressing NGET’s technical, design and safety expectations.

It was about getting into the detail, understanding what the requirements meant in practice, and helping SSEN build an approach that could stand up to scrutiny.

We supported SSEN through the early development and design phases of the Iver programme, providing continuity of technical and process advice for almost two years.

During that time, the interface with NGET continued to evolve, as did the requirements surrounding self-build compliance. We provided the practical engineering insight needed to help SSEN navigate that change and maintain a clear route through the technical and compliance requirements.

Complex infrastructure depends on good interfaces. Yova helped make sure this one stayed connected.