Introduction
Construction sites rely on reliable power for tools, plant, welfare units and offices. Mains connection is often unavailable or impractical on early-phase or remote sites, making temporary generator power a standard part of site setup. This article covers how to approach temporary power on construction projects.
Matching power to the phase of work
Power requirements change as a construction project progresses. Groundworks and early civils typically need power for small plant, lighting and welfare. As the project advances into structural, mechanical and finishing phases, demands increase. A good temporary power strategy anticipates these changes and either scales the solution or plans for it in advance.
Welfare and site offices
Site welfare facilities such as canteens, drying rooms, toilets and showers are often overlooked when estimating power needs. These can draw a significant load, particularly in cold weather when heating runs continuously. Include them in your load calculation from the start.
HVO and Stage V compliance
Many construction projects, particularly those in urban areas or with sustainability commitments, now require low-emission equipment. Stage V compliant generators produce significantly lower levels of particulate matter and NOx than older units. HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuel offers a further reduction in net carbon emissions and runs in standard diesel generators without modification.
The case for managed hire
Construction projects are long enough to benefit from a managed hire arrangement. Rather than taking delivery of equipment and managing fuel, servicing and any faults yourselves, a managed hire means the hire company handles all of that. For project managers with enough else to manage, removing power from the to-do list has real value.
Planning ahead
Bring your temporary power supplier in early, ideally at pre-construction planning stage. Knowing the site access, the likely duration of each project phase and the key equipment being used allows the right solution to be designed rather than patched together as the project develops.
