Matt Parkin (Contractors Engineering Manager for the MMLE Electrification from Kettering to Wigston) from SPL Powerlines UK (SPL) presented a lecture about the challenges and innovation for new electrification schemes. Members can view a video of this lecture by logging in and navigating to the Lecture Video page.

In 2017, SPL won the contract to electrify the Bedford to Kettering and Corby section of the Midland Main Line. In September 2020 they were awarded the extension from Kettering to Wigston as part of the National Electrification Programme. Both schemes were delivered on time and on budget.

In the presentation Matt explored the how SPL delivered these projects by introducing new and novel innovative ideas to electrification. These projects have been delivered through a time of ever-changing standards and new processes to reduce the cost of electrification. They also developed a new basic design range of Overhead Contact Systems (OCS) equipment with Network Rail as part of the route development. SPL has implemented new ideas to achieve the successful energisation and been responsible for carrying out the train testing of the new electrification – a first for any electrification contractor in the UK.

This lecture was co-sponsored by the IMechE and DRES.