Colruyt : expansion of the electrical capacity
Colruyt : expansion of the electrical capacity
New energy infrastructure for renewable energy and e-mobility
A reliable energy supply is essential for companies investing in growth, electrification and sustainable energy. That is why Colruyt Group called on Equans for two strategic medium voltage projects: the renewal of the energy infrastructure in Ollignies and the expansion of electrical capacity at the Wilgenveld site in Halle. Thanks to our expertise in high and medium voltage systems, Colruyt now has safe, compliant and future-ready installations that are fully prepared for the energy transition.
Preparing the energy infrastructure for electric freight transport
Colruyt Group has been investing in sustainable logistics for many years and is a pioneer in Belgium when it comes to emission-free freight transport. In addition to hydrogen trucks, the group is also strongly committed to electric transport. To enable the further electrification of its logistics operations, Colruyt Group needed to expand the available electrical capacity at several locations and make its energy supply future-proof.
At the Wilgenveld site in Halle, additional capacity was required for new charging infrastructure for electric trucks and other electrical applications. In Ollignies, an outdated medium voltage installation had to be renewed and integrated with existing renewable energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels. This was not an assignment Colruyt Group wanted to award to just any potential supplier.
For both projects, the group was looking for a partner that could deliver the installation while also contributing expertise on reliability, safety and scalability. Equans was commissioned to build infrastructure ready to support the growing energy needs of an increasingly electrified logistics environment.
End-to-end projects from engineering to commissioning
Equans took full responsibility for both installations, from engineering and design to installation, testing and commissioning. In Ollignies, we delivered a completely new prefabricated medium voltage substation with medium voltage switchgear, protection systems, metering and transformer cells, and an RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) solution for monitoring and control. We also managed the integration with ORES, Eoly (wind energy cooperative), Vestas (wind turbine manufacturer), the existing wind turbines and PV installations.
For the project in Halle, we built a new prefabricated medium voltage substation with a 1600 kVA transformer, complete medium voltage switchgear, a low voltage main distribution board, UPS emergency power supply and the required cable infrastructure. Both projects were fully tested through FAT and SAT procedures and delivered with a comprehensive as-built dossier.
“The electrification of freight transport requires much more than charging points alone. Behind every electric truck is a robust energy infrastructure that provides sufficient capacity, flexibility and operational reliability. Thanks to this collaboration with Equans, we now have a future-ready foundation to deliver on our further ambitions for emission-free transport.”
Robin Andries, Dept. Manager, Colruyt Group Real Estate
Ready for further electrification
Thanks to this new high and medium voltage infrastructure, Colruyt Group now has reliable and future-proof installations that comply with the applicable Synergrid, ORES and IEC standards. The sites are optimally prepared for further electrification, the integration of renewable energy and future expansions. For Colruyt Group, this means greater operational reliability and infrastructure that evolves in line with the group’s strategic ambitions. The projects demonstrate the added value of an integrated approach, with one partner responsible for design, execution, coordination and commissioning.
Frequently asked questions about medium-voltage installations
Do you have questions about medium-voltage installations and our related services? We're here to explain everything clearly and simply.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for?
Outdated installations can limit the reliability, safety and scalability of your site. Modernisation increases operational reliability and ensures your installation continues to meet current standards. It also creates room for future expansion and electrification.
Correct engineering and a robust protection strategy are essential for stable operation. Equans integrates solar panels, wind energy and other energy sources in line with applicable regulations. This keeps your installation safe, reliable and compliant.
A capacity study maps your current and future energy needs. Based on this analysis, our experts determine which adaptations are required for your medium voltage installation. This helps you avoid overload and prepare for further growth.
A prefabricated solution shortens on-site execution time and limits the impact on your operations. The substation is tested in advance and built according to high quality standards. This makes commissioning faster and more efficient.
An integrated approach ensures smooth project coordination and one central point of contact. This reduces risks, prevents communication errors and accelerates execution. It also means one partner takes responsibility for the entire process.
We combine high-quality components with extensive FAT and SAT testing procedures. We also pay close attention to protection systems, monitoring and documentation. This ensures a safe and reliable installation from day one.
By already taking future power requirements, electrification and sustainable energy projects into account today. Equans designs installations that are scalable and expandable. This ensures your energy infrastructure supports your organisation’s long-term growth ambitions.
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