McGowan Infrastructure has won an award from SSEN Distribution for its use of innovative cable protection technology at an onshore wind project in the Scottish Highlands.
McGowan, part of the Loughborough-based Brush Group, was recognised in the Engineering category of SSEN’s annual Sustainability Supplier Awards for its use of low-carbon, high-voltage cable protection and installation technology.
The technology was deployed at the Burn of Whilk wind farm in Caithness (pictured). McGowan said the patented Eco Cable Protect system reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 85% on the project, as well as reducing the cost of the test project by £2.1m.
Launched in 2023, SSEN’s Sustainability Supplier Awards recognise projects that have made a significant contribution to a sustainability innovation and can demonstrate a tangible and impactful benefit to the three pillars of sustainability – society, the economy, and the environment.
The project at Burn of Whilk included the installation of 21km of 33kV circuit in trefoil over predominantly unmade ground, including very deep peat.
McGowan Infrastructure committed to using Eco Cable Protect – a sustainable alternative to fine fill cable surround – a UK first for this low-carbon cable wrapping system.
Through this patented system, McGowan said it was able to maximise the use of trenchless technology to deliver both cost and carbon savings for the project.
According to McGowan, the technology also helped to safeguard local habitats by minimising reinstatement, mitigating sand washout risk into local watercourses, and excess sand contamination into vital native peatland.
McGowan director Derek Mackay said: “The project has proven that Eco Cable Protect is a game changer, and capable of delivering huge cost and carbon dioxide emissions savings while also safeguarding local habitats and keeping reinstatement efforts to an absolute minimum post-project delivery.
“We are delighted to have been recognised by SSEN with this prestigious award and would like to thank them for the trust put in our technology that has now been adopted as an approved method for future projects.”