30/06/2026
arrigtwohill 38kV Substation Basement – installed in just 4 days
What normally takes up to 12 weeks was installed in just 4 days. The Carrigtwohill 38kV Substation project demonstrates how modern precast construction methods are helping to transform the delivery of critical infrastructure.
Working alongside ESB Networks, the ESB Engineering and Major Projects team, and TLI Group, Banagher Precast Concrete developed and supplied a precision-manufactured precast basement solution that was installed on site in just four days. By comparison, traditional in-situ construction methods can take up to 12 weeks to complete, delivering a significant programme saving while reducing disruption on site.
The precast units form the foundation for the control room, transformer plinths and associated services, providing a safer, more efficient and more repeatable approach to below-ground substation construction. The project highlights the growing role that off-site manufacturing can play in improving quality, certainty and speed across infrastructure projects.
SDG supplied BT Innovation Turnbuckle connection systems to support the assembly of the precast elements. Designed for fast and accurate installation, the dry mechanical connection system eliminates the need for specialist tools and curing periods, allowing elements to be connected efficiently and loaded immediately after installation.
Alongside the programme benefits, the solution also delivered a number of sustainability advantages, including reduced concrete waste, lower vehicle movements, improved dimensional accuracy, leaner manufacturing processes, 36% GGBS concrete content and the use of 100% recycled steel.
For precast manufacturers, consulting engineers and infrastructure contractors, projects such as Carrigtwohill demonstrate how innovative precast solutions and modern connection technologies can help deliver faster, safer and more sustainable construction outcomes.
Project Team
Client: ESB Networks
Precast Manufacturer: Banagher Precast Concrete
Installation: TLI Group
Connection Technology: BT innovation Turnbuckles supplied by SDG
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