Overview
CX Energy delivered a complete turnkey installation of battery energy storage systems (BESS) across three large supermarket sites. Our role encompassed detailed design, civil and electrical works and the safe energisation of 250 kW/517 kWh BESS units.
This project highlighted our ability to integrate cutting-edge renewable energy solutions while adhering to the strict safety and quality standards required in commercial environments.
Scope of work
- Site design and engineering
We developed comprehensive site designs for the overall layout planning, cable route mapping and the preparation of detailed civil and electrical designs. Our engineering work ensured that cable loss calculations and mechanical drawings for container plinths met manufacturer and industry standards. - Civil and mechanical works
The project required the installation and/or adaptation of container plinths at three locations. At the first site, a new plinth was constructed; at the second, an extension was integrated into the existing plinth to accommodate the BESS unit; and at the third, the available plinth was utilised to streamline installation and reduce lead times. - Electrical installation and wiring
Our team installed the necessary AC cables within designated cable trays and ladders, ensuring secure fixation and compliance with BS 7671 regulations. This work included precise cable stripping, crimping and labelling, alongside the installation of an edge controller device and integration with the building’s fire suppression system. - Earthing and compliance works
To ensure system safety and reliability, all BESS installations were earthed in accordance with BS 7671. The earthing work involved the supply and installation of copper cables with the appropriate insulation and connector systems, achieving equipotential bonding across all metallic components. - Commissioning and handover
Upon completion of the civil and electrical installations, rigorous testing was conducted. We provided comprehensive electrical installation certificates and test documentation before energising the systems and handing over the fully operational BESS units to the client.
Challenges and solutions
Operating across multiple sites, CX Energy faced several logistical and technical challenges.
- Site-specific plinth design
Each site needed a tailored approach to plinth design, which required developing bespoke civil designs and utilising existing infrastructure where possible. We ensured that each installation met manufacturer loading requirements and environmental conditions. - Complex cable management
With strict limits on AC losses and the need for future-proofing ducting capacity, our engineering team implemented robust cable routing solutions that allowed for 50% additional capacity in duct ways. - Coordinated multi-site delivery
Our detailed works programme and frequent stakeholder engagement ensured that all installations were delivered on schedule. We provided regular progress updates and adherence to Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, which minimised disruption across all sites.
Outcome
We completed the installation of high-performance BESS units, delivered our services on time and met rigorous quality and safety standards. This achievement reinforces our commitment to providing innovative, reliable and sustainable energy solutions for commercial applications, while enabling our clients to harness the benefits of advanced battery storage technology. It demonstrates our expertise and capability in delivering complex projects by managing multi-site installations with precision and efficiency.