Visit to Langage Power station

A major gas power plant, Plymouths Langage energy centre was the topic of discussion for APM branch members across South Wales & West of England this June.

Hosted by APM committee member Simon Reid, a group of twelve (including members from organisations as diverse as the Met Office, Thales, Rolls Royce and HM Land Registry) gathered together for an exclusive tour around the Centrica-owned combined cycle gas power plant.

During the tour delegates learned about the strong adherence to a project lifecycle, with a phased and gated approach contributing to the success in delivering a world class power plant. They also gained an insight into the political, economic, social and technological factors inherent to the requirements specification and how these factors were managed during construction and now in the extended project life-cycle.

Despite an 8 month delay, due to certain steel pipe work not meeting standards, the project achieved a significant under-spend due to a non-take up of contingency. Effective risk management was central to the project management approach and ensured delivery of the power plant's business case objectives. The plant was originally designed to burn fuel oil as well, with the entire infrastructure being delivered for this use. In the end, market drivers influenced the decision and this aspect was never commissioned.

This was also a great example of bringing vital STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) case studies into schools. The extended life-cycle includes educating children through tours - the fantastic discovery visitor centre provides a fantastic learning space.

Theres more to celebrate, too. On a world class level, the running of the plant is achieved with an environmental awareness, with a high level project which is driven to reduce the environmental impact it makes. The incredible infrastructure supplies enough power to support a million homes.

Simon Reid said: Langage energy centre combines environmental awareness, top project management approaches and a key interest in STEM an eye opening and rewarding morning for the group.

For APM members looking to learn more about the plant, please contact Catherine Bowles