Temporary Power

A shutdown plan should identify what can stop and what needs continued supply. Essential systems, normal operating equipment and convenience loads can have different requirements. The brief keeps those priorities clear so the temporary arrangement addresses the actual operational need.

The scope can include demand assessment, source selection, temporary distribution, cables, suitable protective arrangements, connection, testing and operating instructions. Depending on the requirement, the source may be a suitable existing supply or separately specified temporary generation.

The installation brief also identifies monitoring, inspection, changes during use and removal at the end. Temporary equipment needs identifiable ownership and an agreed operating period. A cable layout that was suitable for the first stage of a project may need review when work areas or access routes change.

Capacity is more than adding equipment labels together. Starting demands, simultaneous operation, power characteristics and the required continuity inform the design. Sensitive equipment may need a different arrangement from basic temporary site loads, and a generator should not be assumed to provide uninterrupted service.

Connection to an existing installation requires a defined changeover and protective arrangement where relevant. Earthing, bonding, protection and safe separation from other supplies are technical design matters. Uncontrolled connection or backfeeding must not form part of the operating plan; the appropriate specialist establishes the method.

Provide the equipment list, running periods, critical loads and expected duration. Identify available supply information, proposed locations and any environmental or access constraints. Include future phases so the arrangement can account for credible changes without assuming unlimited extra capacity.

Site planning should cover vehicle routes, pedestrians, weather exposure, work areas and any generator siting requirements. Confirm who authorises shutdowns and who is responsible for day-to-day operation. Equipment users need clear instructions about what they can connect and how to report a problem.

We establish the load and operating requirement, define the technical arrangement and coordinate installation with the site programme. Cables and distribution are planned around access and the environment. The relevant checks and operating information are completed before the arrangement is accepted for use.

During operation, changes to loads or layout follow an agreed review route. Faults and damage are reported to the responsible contact. At demobilisation, disconnection, removal and any reinstatement are planned so temporary work does not leave unresolved connections or unidentified equipment behind.

Load, duration, distribution distance, source choice, access and environmental protection affect cost. Generation can add fuel, servicing, noise and operating-management considerations. The proposal needs to state what is included throughout the use period, not only the delivery and initial connection.

Connection and transfer stages can require planned interruptions. We agree the shutdown windows and sequence before installation, including any testing or trial needed for critical loads. Handover identifies the operating limits, responsible contacts, inspection arrangements and the process for changes or removal.

Industrial premises need process loads and starting demands understood. Retail estates need trading and customer routes protected. Construction and development involves changing work areas, while public and community premises needs clear separation between equipment and building users.

The full service and project offering supports all sectors. The temporary system is designed around the actual activity and site conditions rather than assuming one arrangement suits every setting.

We coordinate work across Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Tees Valley, including Berwick-upon-Tweed, Alnwick, Morpeth, Hexham, Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees and Middlesbrough.

Multi-site requirements retain a separate load and access brief for each location. Wider specialist and portfolio work is assessed around the equipment, duration and delivery needs. View all locations.

Read what should happen during follow-on works and what information to provide when reporting a fault. HSE event electrical-safety guidance explains relevant planning principles for temporary event supplies; the actual design follows the site and activity.