Battery Storage Unit – Liverpool

Technics was commissioned to conduct Ground Investigation works and prepare an Interpretative Report to support the foundation design of a new Battery Storage Unit in Liverpool. Our purpose was to verify soil properties, assess potential on-site contamination, and offer solutions through reporting. 

Client Overview 

Technics client is a £15Bn renewable energy company whose vision is for a “world that runs entirely on green energy.” 

Challenge 

With a set programme of work, Technics had to mobilise onto the site upon instruction. The site was busy with multiple contractors; therefore, with our SMSTS certificate, we were able to supervise the site operations and communicate with the teams to ensure no delays were caused.  

With an agreed budget, we adapted our methodology to deliver Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental samples and cover the depths required to complete the scope efficiently.  

The key objectives agreed with the client 

  • Provide factual information from ground investigation works. 
  • Provide information on groundwater level. 
  • Identify potential ground contamination and provide consultation on remediation. 
  • Identify potential groundwater contamination and provide consultation on remediation. 
  • Identify soil permeability within the site. 
  • Provide CBR value for proposed roads or other paved areas within the site. 
  • Provide design parameters for foundation design for battery storage units. 

Solution 

Technics utilised a Window Sampling rig capable of undertaking Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental samples, and Standard Penetration Tests. Following the window sampling, dynamic probing was also used within each hole to provide information on the dynamic profile from the bottom of each borehole to the target depth. 

The confirmation of groundwater presence on the site was achieved through thorough groundwater monitoring rounds. During the geotechnical investigation (GI) activities, an odour indicative of hydrocarbons was detected. Subsequent verification of groundwater presence led to the collection of samples, which were appropriately stored in cool boxes and refrigerators in accordance with British Standards. These samples were scheduled for hydrocarbon testing, and all results fell within the permissible limits for commercial use. In addition to groundwater monitoring, a falling head test was conducted to assess ground permeability. 

The calculation of CBR (California Bearing Ratio) values for areas designated for roads and paved footpaths on the site was carried out through the implementation of the TRL DCP (Dynamic Cone Penetrometer) test. 

 With a thorough site investigation completed, Technics could analyse the data to deliver a comprehensive Interpretative Ground Investigation Report.  

Successful outcome  

Our team completed all tasks within the agreed budget and on time, without any incidents on the site. We ensured that our deliverables met the highest quality standards, providing our clients with a comprehensive solution. 

To discuss your project with our expert Michail Kamperis, please call 01483 230 080 or email enquiries@technicsgroup.com to discuss your ground investigation survey requirements.