Hornsea 3 Onshore Converter Station near Swardeston, NorfolkThe transformation of a 49-acre field into a near-complete two-link substation marks a significant milestone for
Ørsted’s Hornsea 3 project. Installation works for the Link 1 and Link 2 converter stations are progressing at pace, with both facilities set to convert the direct current arriving from Hornsea 3 into alternating current for integration into the National Grid at Norwich Main. Once operational, the site will help supply electricity to more than three million homes.
The project’s safety record stands out as a particular point of pride. Despite the complexity and intensity of activity on site, with multiple contractors and sub-contractors working in tandem, the team has achieved 750,000 working hours without a single lost-time accident or safety incident.
Paul Ashworth, onshore construction manager at the Onshore Converter Station, attributes this achievement to the project’s collaborative ethos: “Our safety record and rate of progress have only been possible due to the strong ‘one team’ culture that has grown across the project. Our aim is to stay focused, avoid complacency, and continue tackling issues together. Major infrastructure projects are never easy, but the satisfaction of seeing this one take shape is reward enough.”
Collaborative atmosphere]He continued: “Huge thanks go out to the amazing team working tirelessly to deliver this critical piece of the puzzle that will one day form part of the world’s largest single offshore wind farm, delivering 2.9GW of ‘green’ energy for the UK. Technology aside, it is people who make the difference. The positive relationships and collaborative atmosphere here are among the best I have seen in my career — and it is a privilege to be part of it.”
The site, which began as undeveloped land, has been transformed into ‘state of the art’ facilities now ready for the final stages of installation.
Hitachi Energy, the main on-site contractor, broke ground in spring 2023, initially focusing on vegetation clearance and the preparation of three working platforms. Despite challenging weather conditions, progress continued unabated.
In January last year,
PJ Hegarty, appointed by Hitachi as civils contractor, commenced permanent works, including deep drainage and reinforced concrete foundations, paving the way for Hitachi’s building, mechanical and electrical, and HV teams. The project remains on schedule, with the current focus on the installation and commissioning of electrical equipment that will bring the converter stations online.