The winning entry is the Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown Centralised Standby Power Supply Control System Project submitted by Varming Consulting Engineers. 

The HSE Estates Brief entailed complex upgrading of the existing fragmented standby infrastructure into a centralised N+1 resilient network where redundancy is guaranteed even during failure of any primary low voltage or medium voltage component. 

The new centralised standby power supply control system solution required (1) new HVO fuelled 1500kVA generators to be integrated seamlessly with existing control systems of the central MV generators, (2) the replacement of the main LV switchgear in both substations and (3) upgrading of the existing transformers from 1MVA to 1.6MVA.  

Comprehensive pre-planning and meticulous on-site execution in a safe and efficient manner enabled the successful changeover to the centralised standby power supply control system to be achieved with minimal disruption to continuity of electrical supply to the hospital campus. 

Varming Consulting Engineers for Block J, Garda HQ

The winning building project Block J, Garda HQ by Varming Consulting Engineers, demonstrated a sustainable and innovative approach to transforming an existing historic building into one that combined environmentally conscious design, energy efficiency and  improved indoor environment, for An Garda Siochana. Collaboration across all disciplines helped produce optimum design solutions that would provide life cycle cost savings, and reduce carbon emissions, whilst saving energy on a sustainable basis. With careful thought and imagination, suitable service routes were found that would minimise intervention and eliminate the risk of potential damage to the existing protected building’s fabric and structural stability.”