Energy Infrastructure – Modular Electrical Building

Modular Electrical Buildings

UK

ODS Engineering delivered two technically advanced modular electrical buildings for a grid-scale energy storage development, designed to safely house medium-voltage switchgear and control systems within a high-risk electrical environment.

The buildings were engineered from first principles to mitigate the risk of a potential internal arc fault event, including controlled pressure relief, structural integrity, and personnel safety. Manufactured off-site in a controlled environment, each module was CE-certified to EN 1090 and fully integrated prior to delivery to ensure quality, safety, and programme certainty.

Project Completion

2025

 

  • ODS Engineering – Delivering safety-critical modular buildings for high-energy environments.
  • DfMA-Driven Delivery Model – Engineered & tested before delivery which de-risked the project execution programme.
  • Supporting modern energy infrastructure through compliant, performance-led modular design

The Challenge

Grid-connected energy facilities operating medium-voltage equipment present elevated safety and design challenges. The project required modular buildings that could:

  • Safely accommodate MV switchgear under internal arc fault conditions
  • Control pressure rise within enclosed electrical rooms
  • Protect structural elements, doors, and building fabric
  • Meet stringent fire, structural, and compliance requirements
  • Be delivered on a fast-track programme with minimal on-site risk

The Solution

ODS Engineering designed and manufactured two fully integrated modular electrical buildings, engineered specifically to address these risks. The solution included:

  • Structural design aligned with internal arc fault pressure analysis
  • Engineered pressure-relief provision to limit room overpressure
  • A2 non-combustible plantroom with 1hr fire related design
  • Steel structure in line with EN1090 EX2 designed to withstand transient load cases
  • Integrated ventilation, HVAC, lighting, and containment systems
  • ABB 33kV Switchgear 25kA, 2500A SWG
  • Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) to validate build quality before delivery

Through off-site manufacture and early validation, ODS Engineering significantly reduced construction risk, improved safety assurance, and accelerated project delivery.