23 Oct 2025
Dual Success: Shotton Mill Completes Complex Moves of 80-Tonne Power Transformers
Shotton Mill Limited site achieved a crucial operational victory this week by successfully completing the highly complex installation of both 132kV stepdown transformers. This dual milestone marks a major step forward in preparing the Paper manufacturing campus for commissioning.
The two transformers, each a colossal 80-tonne unit, were moved from the High Voltage (HV) switch yard and carefully manoeuvred into their final, blast-wall-protected bays at the southern end of the new Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant.
This delicate operation required intense planning and precision, a testament to the hard work of the entire Shotton Mill engineering and logistics teams. The specialised teams from Ipsum and JB Rawcliffe & Sons Ltd handled the heavy lift and transport with exceptional skill. Both transformers required meticulous handling as it they were taken around Weighbridge Road and carefully "skated" into their precise final positions this week.
These transformers are essential components of the mill's power infrastructure. Notably, they are being repurposed from the site's previous operations, aligning with Shotton Mill’s commitment to resource efficiency and the circular economy.
Engineering Manager, Jeff Tyson commented on the complexity of the task, "Safely moving these two 80-tonne units across an active construction site and 'skating' them into their final blast-wall bays was a huge logistical challenge. This operation was completed flawlessly thanks to the expertise of our Shotton Mill engineering and logistics teams and external partners. Installing this core infrastructure is a massive leap forward for us."
Once fully integrated, they will serve as the main electrical feed to and from the site, performing the vital function of stepping down the incoming 132kV power to 11kV for reliable distribution across the entire state-of-the-art facility.
The successful installation of both 132kV transformers is a clear indicator of the rapid progress being made across the site. This advancement brings Shotton Mill one significant step closer to the commissioning phase and full operation, reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainable UK manufacturing.
