ASA HV Substation Upgrade

Services

Electrical & Lighting / Hazardous Areas Management / Project Management 

Industries

Government & Infrastructure / Utilities & Energy Infrastructure

Project Manager

Sam Molloy

Client

Ben Naughton (ADG) 

Location

Alice Springs Airport, NT

Scope

Design and installation of four 30m lighting towers with floodlights, distribution board, and underground reticulation 

Timeline

Inspected March 2024, anticipated completion May 2024 

Project Overview

MECNT was engaged to deliver the installation and commissioning of a new high-voltage substation and main switchboard at Alice Springs Airport. The project included the changeover of HV cabling to commission the new substation, as well as the decommissioning and removal of the redundant substation. The works were completed in Alice Springs, NT, with environmental and operational compliance as a key focus throughout the project timeline. 

Challenge

  • Integrating new HV infrastructure within an operational airport environment, requiring careful planning to avoid disruption.


  • Managing environmental risks, including dust, noise, waste, and soil erosion, in compliance with airport and regulatory requirements. 


  • Coordinating scope changes, such as rerouting HV cabling to avoid underground services and tanks. 



  • Ensuring all works met strict safety, environmental, and cultural heritage standards.

Solution

  • Installed and commissioned a new HV substation and main switchboard. 


  • Changed over HV cabling, decommissioned, and removed the old substation.


  • Implemented environmental controls: dust suppression, clean fill certification, sediment and erosion management, and waste removal. 


  • Maintained compliance with all environmental and safety requirements, including induction for all personnel, noise and vibration controls, and spill kit provision for hazardous substances. 



  • Adapted project scope as required, including rerouting cabling to avoid underground obstacles.

Results

  • Successful installation and commissioning of new HV infrastructure, supporting airport operations and future growth.


  • Environmental risks managed proactively, with dust, waste, and soil erosion controls in place. 


  • Project delivered with minimal disruption to airport operations and in full compliance with regulatory and client requirements. 


  • Enhanced safety and operational reliability for the airport’s electrical systems.