MEMS pull out all the stops to provide reliable power supply for life-saving equipment
The NHS Nightingale Hospital in London was the first of seven temporary large-scale critical care hospitals established in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this monumental effort, the Nightingale Hospital Power Supply from MEMS played a crucial role in ensuring reliable power for the facility. Set up by NHS England, these hospitals were designed to manage the anticipated surge in patients requiring critical care. Located within the ExCeL London convention centre, Nightingale Hospital South East had the capacity to accommodate up to 4,000 beds, each equipped with critical care equipment tailored to treat severe COVID-19 symptoms.
In just nine days, the 87,328-square-metre exhibition space was transformed into a functioning hospital framework, featuring approximately 80 wards with 42 beds each. At full capacity, it would become the largest hospital in the UK. The MEMS team worked tirelessly in collaboration with the Armed Forces, NHS staff, and other contractors, taking on long shifts day and night to support the rapid conversion of the ExCeL Centre into a temporary field hospital. Their efforts helped the NHS deliver exceptional care for critically ill patients during an unprecedented crisis.
Project Summary
One of the main challenges during the setup of the Nightingale Hospital was ensuring sufficient electricity. The hospital required significant duty and standby power. After assessing the site’s electrical infrastructure, it was clear modifications were needed. ExCeL’s system had to be upgraded to handle the increased load. Mains power was prioritised for critical areas, while temporary UPS and generators were installed at substations to provide backup power.
Deployment of Temporary Power
MEMS responded within days of the request. The team supplied and installed 21,850 kVA of temporary power. This included generators ranging from 100 kVA to 1250 kVA, 25 kilometres of temporary cable, distribution boards, changeover panels, and cable covers. Heras fence panels were also installed to secure the area.
Overcoming Structural Challenges
The south side of the building posed a major challenge. This section overhangs water and lacks support for heavy equipment. MEMS worked closely with site architects to solve the issue. Together, they installed 140 steel beams to support the generators and equipment. Once complete, the team positioned each generator according to the architects’ instructions.
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
After installation and commissioning, the project transitioned to MEMS’ project management team. Planned maintenance schedules and fuel replenishment programmes were implemented. MEMS monitored all equipment remotely using MEMS Connect. The system sent operational alerts to a 24-hour control room, ensuring immediate action when required.
The Results
Through the hard work from all involved in the project, the NHS Nightingale Hospital in London officially opened on 3rd April 2020 and received its first coronavirus patients within a matter of days.
“We are proud to be part of this landmark project to help defeat Covid-19, and we are incredibly proud of our great team who have made this possible.” – Marc Cooper, Key Account Manager
Nightingale Hospital Power Supply by MEMS
The Nightingale Hospital Power Supply from MEMS was essential to the success of this project, ensuring reliable support throughout its planning, construction, and operation. Fortunately, due to other London hospitals managing the demand for COVID-19 critical care, the NHS Nightingale Hospital South East has since been placed on standby.
During this unprecedented global pandemic, MEMS is grateful for the opportunity to assist NHS England in the fight against COVID-19. The team’s contribution to this vital project exemplifies the company’s commitment to supporting critical infrastructure during times of crisis.
