In this dual-phased project, Barton Knight Contracting was engaged directly by Wexham Park Hospital to provide additional power and resilience for the pharmacy area, comprising kitchens, wards, IT and critical care units.

In the initial phase, which started in June 2022, a 2000amp generator changeover panel fitted with a set of Castell Keys was installed. This was designed to run in conjunction with the new pharmacy panel and provide back-up support in the event of a mains power failure.

An extension to the switch room was also built, adding an extra 10 square footage to allow room for the new generator.

An additional 2000amp VEAM connection unit in stainless steel (and therefore weatherproof) was installed outside for additional resilience. Finally, Barton Knight upgraded the LV (Low Voltage)
transformer to HV (High Voltage) to increase the load available and allow for future provision.

The second stage – supplying and fitting a 1400kVA generator – was completed in July 2023. The new generator was commissioned to provide further resilience to the pharmacy area and installed in a small courtyard.

Some small existing buildings were demolished first and then a new concrete base was laid – specifically designed for the 26-tonne generator and its fuel tank.

The courtyard was adjacent to a mortuary which required constant access, so Barton Knight had to adjust the works accordingly while minimising disruption to this critical live environment.

As the courtyard was surrounded on all sides, the generator had to be lifted in by a 1,000-tonne crane (assembled by a smaller, 200-tonne crane), set up in a car park 55 metres away. Once in place, 16 500mm Aluminium Wire Armoured (AWA) cables were run from the switch panel to power the generator.

The lifting and installation were completed in 18 hours, as the car park could only be closed for one day.