Design and construction of a 5MW Traction Feeder Substation (TFS) is well underway by UGL at the Public Transport Authority's new multi-functional Bellevue Railcar Depot in Perth’s eastern suburbs.
An important part of the broader METRONET WA Railcar Program, once completed, the Bellevue TFS will serve as a vital interface between the Western Power 132kVac transmission network and the 25kVac overhead rail traction supply system. The substation will also provide the traction power to future extensions of Perth’s Midland Line to the east of the depot.
UGL’s commitment to environment and sustainability is reflected in various aspects of the project, through measures such as repurposing materials and conserving power and water required for the project.
By repurposing fill (dirt) during the early earthworks pad extension, the project team minimised the amount of waste that would have otherwise been disposed of off-site.
Recognising the long-term impact of construction activities, the team opted to connect a mains electricity supply for construction power instead of relying on a diesel-powered generator and ultimately reduced emissions during the project. Similarly, by connecting a mains water supply to the site, we eliminated the need to truck water in throughout the project. These small changes to the way we plan and deliver our work can offer significant environmental benefits over time by reducing downstream carbon emissions, air and noise pollution and traffic congestion.
The adoption of mains water and electricity supply not only contribute to the success of the Bellevue Depot TFS project but will also provide environmental and sustainability benefits that extend beyond the life of the project, particularly as the next stages of the adjacent METRONET Bellevue Railcar Manufacturing and Maintenance Facility commence this year.
Construction of the substation is expected to be complete in mid-2024.