Repeat installation validating a proven GRP cooling tower standard | Northside Power Station, Vale | 2025

Cooling System Install Guernsey
Cooling System Install Guernsey
Cranage Cooling System Install Guernsey

Repeat Installation Validating a Proven GRP Cooling Tower Standard

Following a successful 24MW cooling tower replacement delivered in 2019, Guernsey Electricity selected Vistech again to implement a second-phase installation at the same site. Phase 2 builds on the proven GRP tower standard, delivering repeatable performance, improved maintainability and lower lifecycle risk in a coastal, corrosive environment.

At-a-glance

  • Client: Guernsey Electricity Limited (GEL)
  • Site: Guernsey Power Station, Northside, Vale
  • Project: Cooling tower replacement – Phase 2 (repeat installation)
  • Cooling duty: 12MW total (2 x 6MW towers)
  • Cooling tower model: EWK 1800/09 (GRP casing and integral sump)
  • Approach: Standardised packaged towers & repeatable turnkey installation

Background

Guernsey Electricity operates critical generation infrastructure supplying the island. In 2019, the site completed a major cooling tower replacement programme, introducing packaged GRP cooling towers engineered for low energy consumption and coastal corrosion resistance.

Phase 2 is a deliberate sequel: a repeat installation due to the increased duty seen from the plant that standardises the cooling tower solution across additional circuits, reduces maintenance burden and ensures reliability.

System requirements

  • Assured cooling capacity to support operational resilience and reliability of electricity generation
  • Low-noise operation suitable for proximity to residential areas
  • Materials and construction suited to coastal exposure and corrosion risk
  • Repeatable, standardised solution to simplify spares, servicing and operator familiarity
  • Turnkey delivery with clear interfaces for mechanical, electrical and access systems

The Cooling Tower Solution

Vistech proposed a second-phase deployment of packaged GRP cooling towers based on the same design philosophy proven in 2019 -factory pre-assembled modular construction towers for rapid installation, predictable performance and reduced installation site risk.

  • 2 x EWK 1800/09 induced-draught GRP cooling towers, each rated at 6MW (12MW total)
  • Repeat siting strategy adjacent to the existing concrete pond/sump to maximise reuse of existing infrastructure
  • Galvanised-after-manufacture support steelwork and walkways to improve access and standardise future maintenance
  • Matched control philosophy using VSD fan control with digital temperature control for stable outlet temperature and energy efficiency
  • Commissioning and handover aligned to site operational constraints

Key Technical Features

  • GRP (glass reinforced polyester) casing and structural sections for corrosion resistance in coastal conditions
  • Anti-legionella Sanipacking® fill packing and high-efficiency drift eliminators
  • High-efficiency spray distribution system with non-clogging nozzles for uniform wetting and sustained duty
  • Induced-draught configuration
  • Direct-driven fan/motor gear assembly (no belts) to reduce maintenance, improve reliability & increase efficiency
  • Large pack access doors and CleanSafe flooring to support safe, repeatable inspection and pack maintenance

Scope of supply

  • Design, supply, delivery and site assembly of 2 x EWK 1800/09 GRP cooling towers
  • Cranage on a full contract-lift basis
  • Design and supply of galvanised support steelwork to adapt the existing concrete pond for the new tower arrangement
  • Walkways, handrails, GRP ladders and fan access platforms to standardise safe maintenance access
  • Stainless-steel pipework modifications and connections within the cooling tower pond area (including replacement isolating valves as required)
  • Electrical works including VSD fan control, interconnecting wiring and stainless-steel external-rated control panel enclosure

Project Outcomes & Value

  • Standardised, repeatable cooling tower platform to support future phases and simplify spares strategy
  • Reduced lifecycle risk through corrosion-resistant GRP construction and direct-drive fan design
  • Improved maintainability via engineered access (platforms, walkways, CleanSafe flooring, large access doors)
  • Energy-optimised fan control using VSD temperature-based control philosophy
  • Turnkey delivery model reducing interface risk and supporting continuity of supply