The Road to Power: Meeting the Challenges of Electrifying Construction Equipment

The Road to Power project tackles the future challenges from electrifying construction equipment in large infrastructure works. As non-road mobile machinery shifts to battery power, ensuring reliable, flexible and temporary charging infrastructure becomes crucial. High energy demands, variable locations, and evolving project sites can complicate distribution network planning, therefore, flexible connection options can be a valuable tool in the distribution network’s toolset to enable new connections in a timely manner. 

Developing Flexible Grid Connection Solutions 

EA Technology, in partnership with National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED), has developed a proof-of concept tool that will enable customers with flexible demand requirements to instigate alternative temporary connection options for their site. By assessing future energy demands and exploring new connection methods, this tool will guide customers in securing temporary grid connections. Leveraging existing connection tools and technical expertise, this project is the next step in preparing for a more electrified future.  

Responding to Construction Industry Electrification Needs 

The Road to Power SIF Alpha project was borne out of conversations with the construction industry and the challenge that greater electrification of their compounds will bring as larger gird connections are required. The tool will model load impacts, evaluate technology options and streamline connections. By enabling customers with demand connections that have flexible demand requirements throughout the day and across the year, short-term connections to the HV network may be achieved quicker.  

Supporting Net Zero Targets Through Innovation 

The tool aims to lower costs, accelerate decarbonisation, and deliver cost savings to consumers. 

Watch the SIF Project Dissemination Webinar

This project was funded by energy network users and consumers through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), a programme from the UK’s independent energy regulator.