Substation

Application

Overview Case Studies Products

Substation Installations

A substation is an important part of an electrical power distribution system. It’s essentially a point where electricity can be transformed from high voltage to low voltage (or the other way around) and directed to the feeders that deliver power to different users.

We rely on substations in distribution networks to help move electricity efficiently and reliably over long distances, reduce losses, and keep voltage levels appropriate for each area. They also provide switching and protection functions, which help isolate faults and keep the system running smoothly. In simple terms, substations make it possible to safely step down the high-voltage electricity from the transmission grid to the lower voltages needed for homes, businesses, and industries.

Overcoming site challenges

Site preparation must often be completed quickly and may involve temporary groundworks, levelling or modular foundations. Heavy equipment like mobile transformers and skid-mounted switchgear requires careful planning and specialised lifting. Close coordination between civil, electrical and mechanical teams is essential, and strict compliance with safety and temporary works requirements is critical to ensure stability and safe operation.

Safety first

We support substation projects by providing temporary access bridges for plant, robust formwork for bases, and a range of safety and ground protection products. Our breadth of equipment and installation expertise ensures contractors can manage complex works efficiently while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Comprehensive substation solutions for the Power sector

Temporary works play an important role in substation installation, helping keep the site safe, accessible, and efficient. Excavation support such as bracing frames or trench boxes helps create safe working areas for foundations and cable routes. Carefully planned lifting solutions are also essential for handling heavier items like transformers and switchgear.

To keep the project moving, temporary access roads and working platforms can help equipment and crews get around the site safely. Temporary groundworks support construction activities, while environmental monitoring measures like noise and dust suppression help minimise disruption to the surrounding area.

Providing a holistic engineered solution

Mabey Hire brings a real advantage to temporary works for substation installations by offering a fully engineered, end-to-end solution. Our in-house engineers use robust digital design tools to deliver precise structural calculations, ensuring the right shoring system is in place to limit ground movement and protect nearby utilities often a critical requirement on substation sites.

We also offer a wide range of modular bridging and access solutions, including our Compact 200 Bridge, which can be configured to suit tight or complex site layouts. This helps keep equipment deliveries and workforce access running smoothly, even in challenging ground conditions.