World’s largest wind farm produces first power with help of Jones Bros30th Oct 2023

Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK has played a significant role in delivering clean energy to six million British homes annually after Dogger Bank Wind Farm started producing electricity for the first time.

The North Wales firm’s work has energised one of the scheduled 277 13MW turbines at the world’s largest offshore wind farm to begin generating power.

The civil engineering contractor installed almost 77 miles of underground onshore high voltage direct current (HVDC) and 15 miles of high voltage alternating current (HVAC) to connect the first two phases of the project, Dogger Bank A and B, to the national grid.

Ruthin-headquartered Jones Bros also fitted around more than six kilometres of HVAC cable from the converter station to the Creyke Beck electricity substation for the initial stage of the development.

Each rotation of just one turbine situated off the coast of Yorkshire in the North Sea, will power an average home for two days.

UK prime minister Rishi Sunak hailed the landmark moment, highlighting the scheme’s energy security boost, job creation, and contribution to the country’s sustainability goals.

He said: “Offshore wind is critical to generating renewable, efficient energy that can power British homes from British seas.

“I’m proud that this country is already a world leader in reaching net zero by 2050, and by doubling down on the new green industries of the future, we’ll get there in a way that’s both pragmatic and ambitious.

“That’s why it’s fantastic to see the world’s largest wind farm, Dogger Bank, generating power for the first time today from UK waters, which will not only bolster our energy security, but create jobs, lower electricity bills and keep us on track for net zero.”

Jones Bros has also carried out restoration work, including the removal of haul roads, installation of new land drainage system, and the cultivating of fields, which were handed back to owners.

Contracts director Garod Evans said: “When we started on the project, the first power milestone seemed to be a long way in the distance.

“To reach this stage, where the initial turbine is generating renewable energy – and a significant amount at that – is wonderful.

“I know all members of the team are proud to have played a part on such a landmark development.”

Dogger Bank Wind Farm project director Olly Cass added: “This milestone marks a major step forward for our industry that wouldn’t have been possible without the ingenuity of our supply chain partners and commitment of our lenders.

“We thank each and every one of them for their role in our journey to first power. Together we’re creating a greener and more secure energy system for UK homes, businesses, and future generations.”

Jones Bros has also completed the enabling works for the construction of the onshore converter station platform near Redcar on Teesside for the third phase of the project, Dogger Bank C.

Established in the 1950s, Jones Bros owns one of the largest plant fleets in the UK and employs approximately 500 people.

The company is currently working on contracts in various sectors including highways, flood and marine defence, waste management and renewable energy around the UK.

The company runs an award-winning apprenticeship scheme, which has produced nearly 40 per cent of its current workforce, with many of its senior managers having started out as apprentices or in a trainee role. It has recruited more than 100 apprentices during the past three years.