Smarter Roads:
Reducing Power Outages
on Critical National
Infrastructure
Response Time Improvement
28 days, minimising downtime and
enhancing operational eciency.
Compliance Drive
ensuring compliance with
energy standards.
Network Oversight
power dependencies at 2,022 sites,
improving management and visibility.
Real-Time Monitoring
register, enabling real-time energy
consumption tracking.
Client Overview
A national infrastructure provider dedicated to delivering a safe, reliable, and ecient road network that drives economic growth and supports public well-being, faced significant challenges in managing power outages across its strategic road network.
Problem Statement
The absence of smart meters on motorways, coupled with a high volume of outages and the lack of obligations on Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), severely impacted the maintenance of critical infrastructure. This hindered both the tracking of energy consumption and the enforcement of DNO responsibilities.
Approach
To enhance power resilience and operational eciency, the client needed to install smart meters, integrate data management systems, and improve outage tracking capabilities without disrupting critical road network operations. Cross 8 applied a structured, data-driven methodology to meet the client’s ambitious goals while mitigating key risks:
1. Comprehensive Survey & Data Collection
Conducted a network-wide power cabinet analysis to establish an accurate baseline.
2. Smart Meter Installations & Registration
Registered MPANs, scheduled installations, and ensured seamless integration into operational frameworks.
3. Technology Integration & Real-Time Monitoring
Linked power assets to an asset management tool, providing the client with an enhanced ability to track and manage outages
4. Process Optimisation & Automation
Developed dashboards and automated reporting tools to drive data-driven decision-making and operational eciencies.
Challenges
TKey challenges included stakeholder alignment, navigating regulatory requirements, and executing installations across a live transport network without service disruption. The project demanded an agile approach to balance supplier capabilities, technology integration, and strict timelines.
Conclusion
Cross 8’s expertise in power management and technology transformation enabled the client to improve monitoring, reduce outages, and enhance overall network resilience. Unlike traditional consultants, we embedded specialists within the client’s team to deliver practical, hands-on solutions beyond advisory recommendations.
By leveraging data-driven insights, the client can now precisely measure energy consumption, increase DNO obligations, and drive long-term eciencies. This project not only resolved immediate operational challenges but also established a robust foundation for future enhancements in smart motorway infrastructure, ensuring a more resilient and ecient transport network.
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