Substations
Comprehensive Substation Contracting — Your All-in-One Partner
We deliver comprehensive substation solutions for grid operators, power plants, and industrial facilities – from a single partner, reliably and on schedule.
Anfra specializes in civil engineering and infrastructure works for substations of all scales. Our project scopes are flexibly tailored to meet the specific requirements of each client.
Versatile
Solutions
- Site investigation and method statement
- Civil engineering and foundation design
- Earthworks
- Supply and installation of equipment support elements
- Cast-in-place portal foundations
- Transformer foundations with protective walls / transformer bunkers
- Transformer pool hydrostatic test
- Substation buildings and all construction works for control rooms
- Boreholes for domestic water
- Supply and installation of fire-rated gratings
- Supply and installation of fencing and gates
Tailored substation-
construction
A substation is a critical hub in energy distribution, connecting power to the transmission grid and ensuring the safety and operational reliability of the electricity network. Anfra is an experienced expert in substation construction, delivering comprehensive design, construction, and civil engineering services. We handle projects of all scales reliably and strictly on schedule.
Strong expertise in substation design
Our own In-House Engineering Department is responsible for the structural engineering of demanding substation projects across all voltage levels. We have extensive experience with 400 kV and 220 kV transmission grid stations, as well as 110 kV regional grid and industrial sites. We also provide precise structural designs for lower voltage levels, customized to meet each client’s specific needs.
At Anfra, substation structural design is always site-specific. This ensures that foundations and structures are optimized for both safety and cost-effectiveness. High-quality pre-planning and technical expertise guarantee smooth project execution and a long, maintenance-free lifespan for the substation.
Substations from Anfra - Security in the grid
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does a substation project include?
Anfra provides entire substation projects on a turnkey basis, spanning from initial surveys and design to final handover. This comprehensive operating model is known as EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction). While the Design-Build model common in traditional construction is very similar, an EPC delivery also encompasses equipment procurement, testing, and commissioning.
For the client, this model ensures a single point of responsibility, more transparent budgeting, and a seamless flow of information throughout the project lifecycle.
Can you provide only the foundations and concrete structures for a substation?
Absolutely. While we offer full-scope turnkey solutions, we specialize in the demanding concrete structures and foundations required for substations. We frequently provide these services on a subcontracting basis for other general contractors.
Do you have experience with the technical requirements of Fingrid or other major grid operators?
Yes. We have served as a foundation contractor in substation projects that comply with the rigorous quality and safety requirements of Transmission System Operators (TSOs), such as Fingrid.
Our expertise also extends to Sweden, where we execute earthworks and foundation projects for substations. We are well-versed in the operational standards and requirements of the national grid operator, Svenska kraftnät, as well as other major power utilities.
What do AIS and GIS mean in the context of substations?
Substation switchgear can be implemented using two primary technologies, which significantly impact the facility's space requirements and construction methods. Anfra has extensive experience in delivering foundations and civil works for both AIS and GIS installations.
AIS AIS (Air Insulated Switchgear) is a traditional model, typically installed outdoors. From a construction perspective, this involves a large site area where we implement numerous individual equipment foundations, cable trenches, and transformer pads. While the term "AIS" is sometimes used to refer to individual components (such as vacuum circuit breakers), in a construction contract, it refers to the scale and scope of the entire switchyard area.
GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) In this model, the technology is packed into a compact space and is often housed inside a dedicated building. In GIS projects, our role emphasizes high-specification equipment room construction and building foundations. A GIS station typically requires a more massive but smaller-footprint foundation structure compared to an outdoor switchyard. For Anfra, this often entails demanding concrete construction and the delivery of the equipment room building.
Do you build substations in demanding or harsh conditions?
Indeed. We specialize in construction under challenging conditions, from rocky bedrock to the extreme Nordic winter. Utilizing our own fleet and expert team, we guarantee that your project stays on track, no matter the environment or the weather.
How do you ensure occupational safety at substation construction sites?
Safety is at the core of everything we do. We adhere to a Zero Accident goal, ensuring all employees hold required certifications (e.g., Electrical and Occupational Safety). Each project follows a detailed, site-specific safety plan, and our personnel undergo rigorous induction processes—both when joining the company and at each individual construction site.
References - Substations
Planning a substation project?
Tell us about your plans – we will determine the optimal scope of delivery, the most efficient solutions, and a reliable schedule for your project.
We operate throughout Finland and Sweden.
Certified, financially stable, and award-winning
Anfra's activities are based on ISO 9001 -quality system, ISO 45001 -an occupational health and safety system; and ISO 14001 environmental management system.
