This month we chat with Gordon Kam, EV Project Manager to discuss how SEE-V is supporting a leading retailer develop a charging solution for their distribution centre.
Please provide an overview of your job role and responsibilities?
Hi, I’m Gordon EV Charging Network Project Manager. My role is to ensure the timely, high-quality, and cost-effective roll-out of EV charging networks. I manage our projects from start-to-finish including the tendering, planning, procurement, contract management, and project delivery right through to ongoing maintenance. A large part of my role is liaising with our customers, suppliers and partners including various DNOs. ICPs and IDNOs.
Can you tell us about one of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on recently?
Certainly! One of the most interesting projects I've worked on recently involved collaborating with a leading retailer that has committed to transitioning their delivery vehicle fleet to electric. Having already delivered charging schemes at over 60 sites for the client, they were seeking a solution for their distribution centres. These are critical locations, and just one site alone having 170 electric vans to keep charged.
What did SEE-V do?
Our role at SEE-V was crucial in completing the installation of chargers at the distribution center. We have previously undertaken several successful EV charging projects for the client, and this one presented unique challenges, starting with managing the power demand on site. While there was a proposed solution, we provided technical guidance to ensure the electrical capacity was sufficient. Our turnkey solution involved designing the infrastructure to handle the power demands, engaging with the Distribution Network Operator (UK Power Networks) to secure additional connections, installing new HV and LV connections in the car park, setting up Ring Main Units and packaged substations, and finally, installing and commissioning a total of 174 22kWh charging points and 3 twin-port 50kWh charging points.
What were the outcomes of the project?
The project was completed successfully within the allocated budget and timeframe of nine months. We closely collaborated with the client and relevant stakeholders. implementing a phased approach to the project. This involved working on sections of the car park while meticulously planning deliveries and civil works to minimize disruptions. The success of this project led to SEE-V delivering three additional distribution charging schemes to the client.
What lessons did SEE-V learn from this project that could be applied to future endeavors?
One key lesson from this project was the importance of meticulous planning and collaboration. By closely coordinating with the client and other stakeholders, we were able to navigate potential challenges and ensure the project's success. Additionally, understanding the specific power requirements associated with EV charging installations is crucial for delivering effective solutions. These insights and our approach led to us being asked to install the charging infrastructure at three more distribution centres for the customer.