Irvine Solar Farm

Site Difficulties

The project involved the connection of both existing and new renewable assets to both the local production facility, with any excess capacity connected to the Kilwinning substation approximately 12km from the generation site. 4 days prior to the commencement of the 12km cable route, which was to be installed along the A78 dual carriageway, the maintenance contractor working on behalf of Highways Scotland rescinded the permit issued to undertake the works and confirmed that no future permit for the works to take place would be issued.
 

Solutions

Working closely with partners including the client, the Local Authority and other stakeholders, the project team were able to identify a potential alternative route within a week of the initial delay occurring. Working in partnership with the Local Authority, the alternative route was quickly granted permits to allow for proving of the route and identification of engineering difficulties.