Conpower

Consolidated Power Projects undertakes the construction of the Bundey Substation.

Bringing over 25 years of expertise in the engineering industry, Steve Cheesman emerges as the ideal senior project manager who spearheaded Project Energy Connect. Since May 2017, Steve has been a valuable member of Consolidated Power Projects, overseeing significant projects including the Millbrook Substation and the Mt. Gunson South Substation, both in collaboration with ElectraNet.

Mr. Cheesman elaborated on the genesis of the PEC project, citing the impetus to facilitate the exportation of renewable energy to neighbouring states. “The PEC project was primarily aimed at transitioning Australia from coal power to renewable energy. South Australia, in particular, has made significant strides in adopting renewable energy sources. Consequently, there arose a compelling case to commercially export this surplus renewable energy to other states.”

Consolidated Power Projects undertook the construction of the Bundey Substation and upgrading of the Robertstown and Tungkillo substations. According to Mr. Cheesman, the cornerstone of these undertakings lay in upholding CPP’s robust team culture. “I was the project manager who basically directed and oversaw the coordination of construction activities onsite. In my opinion, the most important process of the project was maintaining the team culture, and using open communication to do so.”

Mr. Cheesman went on to explain the biggest challenge his team faced. “With approximately 80 individuals on-site during peak construction, our main challenge was to maintain momentum for everyone.” 

Despite the challenge, Mr. Cheesman was thrilled with the quick turnaround time. “Commencing ground works on May 1st, 2022, and achieving energization by December 22nd, 2023, marked a significant milestone for our team—an impressive feat completed within just 18 months.” 

Concerns arose from the fact that only half of the workforce recruited for the project possessed the requisite skillset to fully accomplish the job. “We were in a position where only half of our workforce had the necessary skillset of what we required – out of 30 electricians, ten of them were 5 star. In that case, we actually had to train these people up in the process of building the substation.”

It turned out to be a benefit for everyone involved, as the less experienced staff receiving the ongoing training throughout the project had increased their skillset for future work.  “On the other side of that, we have just enhanced our workforce, which is incredible.”

When asked about the best of his role, he replied simply, “It’s good to see people grow – that’s the best part of this job.”