Learnings

Outcomes

Progress 2019/20: 
The SPIRET units will be installed at six sites across National Grid. Three of the six sites have been inspected, the three sites were approved, it was agreed what type of device will be installed at each site. The type of devices will be one of the following: Nitrogen pressure and CP sensors, Nitrogen Pressure or Nitrogen pressure and CP sensor with a solar back up.

Closure 2020/21: 
The following benefits were identified during the course of this project: 

Automatic monitoring of nitrogen sleeves will quickly identify sleeves which are in danger of running dry and reduce the cost of operational teams constantly having to visit remote sites to check / top up. 
CP and P is feasible and works in practice and will result in significant cost savings i.e. one logger instead of two. 
The project has identified that the solar option, where feasible, will significantly increase the battery life. 
Battery replacement with off the shelf batteries will deliver an immediate saving (i.e. £30 instead of current £140) plus less need to replace batteries. 
Despite additional functionality the Spiret device should deliver a 15% to 20% cost saving on current purchase prices. 
Similar savings should result in the costs associated with the communications and server / portal  
Data access is now available for integration with NG servers as the next stage 
Maintenance and installation technicians have confirmed how much easier to use and set up the system is, compared to using the older kit. 

Lessons Learnt

Progress 2019/20:  
Communication has been key to the success of this project so, even whilst in lockdown the on-going monthly meetings have been vital, allowing work to progress and ensuring the project team have been able to continue development and make key decision. The willingness of the project team to make things work through this period has been exemplary. 

Closure 2020/21: 
Key Lessons learnt were as follows: 
G19 / G35 needs to be given a significant amount of time and resources in future projects and early contact with external certifiers and internal gatekeepers is essential. 
Only incorporate products from NG preferred suppliers list, despite significant cost reductions being available for identical products with similar ratings and approvals. 
A more detailed assessment of the site is needed before install, especially to capture connections for CP that are present or not.