PROJECTS

In 2022 the Connell team completed foundational works for the Bombay Substation upgrade, a 220/110kV substation in Auckland.  

The substation upgrade was part of a larger Transpower project to future-proof the network to cater for predicted growth in population and electricity demand in Counties Manukau.  

The Connell team was engaged by our clients Electric / Omexom, Transpower and Northpower to deliver roading and groundwork for the substation.  

Connell was tasked with expanding the switchyard for two new transformers, drainage, and an oil holding tank and separator. The team also delivered a concrete base for a tower to re-route overhead lines to different feeders, as well as roading to access the site.  

Site Supervisor Ricky Codd said Connell was awarded the job because of the team’s extensive experience delivering groundworks and foundations for New Zealand’s major substations and switchyards. 

“We have the right people in place, with the right experience and expertise, to deliver awesome results for our energy sector clients – and this project was no exception,” said Ricky.  

“Working in a live switchyard, while navigating the rainy season, tight deadlines, and ongoing Covid restrictions, added to the complexities of the job,” said Ricky.  

The Connell team undertakes extensive training to enable the team to work in a live switchyard, including SE1, SE2, and work management. Safety is at the forefront of everything we do, and detailed pre-work plans are completed to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the project. 

Despite the challenges, Connell delivered the work on time and under budget, and received complimentary feedback on the great work from Transpower.  

Transpower Project Manager Jackie Snelius said she was “delighted” at working with Ricky, who was a recent addition to the Connell team at the time of the project:  

“As we gear up at Bombay for our first commissioning, I wanted to tell you how delighted I am with your new Site Supervisor Ricky Codd.  It is incredible to remember that Ricky has just arrived in New Zealand and literally walked onto Bombay site to take over the Civil Supervision. He has fitted in seamlessly to the site team and is clear and communicative in all he does,” said Jackie. 

Ricky said, “The commission of the two new transformers was a huge milestone for everyone involved. Seeing everything come together under budget, and within the tight deadlines despite the challenges, was an awesome achievement.”