Steel and aluminium are the most widely used materials in the transmission and distribution sector for structures above ground. They are used in support structures in substations (i.e., post insulator, gantry, etc.) and to build electricity pylons. Concrete is the most widely used material for any below ground foundations, bunds, etc. The use of concrete structures is reduced due to higher construction time required, but foundations are principally concrete. Steel, aluminium, and concrete are not only energy intensive materials, but also require significant provisions at design and construction stage (fabrication, craning, specific foundation design, need for deflection consideration etc.) and are often materials that are imported into the UK which exposes the projects to increased environmental impact, long delays, and price increases.
This work aims to examine the use of low carbon construction materials in detail both at feasibility and trial stage for the reduction in carbon emissions associated with construction activities. This will include research for alternative materials and prove the feasibility of the main materials. The focus is on Civil elements, mainly foundations and bunds. Further, this project looks to leverage the latest advances in structures and civil elements technology to ensure that the right asset investment decisions are made for future generations.
