Design Response 

Leveraging lessons from Antarctica, WSP proposed an alternative to traditional construction methods and the previous concept design supplied to CIEL. 

WSP used a Multi Criteria Analysis process to evaluate potential design options and address the unique challenges posed by the remote location. The assessment considered sustainability, environmental impact, technical and cost feasibility, resilience, logistics, fabrication and assembly, operation, and demolition at the end of the asset’s life.

WSP presented the results to CIEL and recommended adopting a prefabricated solution. Constructing the precast foundations in New Zealand removed the need for concrete batching on the island, maximised productivity, addressed limited on-island construction capability and improved quality assurance. 

WSP also used parametric design to support optimisation, repurposed site fill as ballast, and reduced the shipping volume required for material supply and site mobilisation. The resulting design provided a 20% reduction in embodied carbon compared with the previous concept design.   

Remote Service Delivery 

To reduce the need for travel to the remote site, WSP designed the foundations using information provided by CIEL.

WSP also reduced site inspections during construction by reviewing contractor-supplied photographs, drone footage, testing and quality assurance information, and site surveys to confirm the completed works. This reduced travel time, costs and exposure to the safety risks involved with onsite inspections.

Community benefits

WSP supported CIEL’s community engagement by providing 3D-printed replica scale models to showcase at the local Chatham Island School ahead of the students’ site visit.  

Collaboration was at the heart of CIREP, helping to support the future growth and development of the Chatham Islands.

Project benefits

Integrating Future Ready® thinking and relevant future trends delivered significant benefits for the project:

• Lower embodied carbon: The design achieved a 20% reduction in embodied carbon compared with the previous consultant's concept design.
• Reduced emissions: CIREP was estimated to reduce carbon emissions by 1,300 tonnes.
• Lower energy costs: The wind-powered turbines are expected to reduce annual diesel consumption costs by approximately two thirds, from NZ$1.8 million to NZ$0.6 million.
• Improved quality assurance: Prefabrication provided an enclosed and controlled environment for fabricating the concrete components.
• Fewer offshore inspections: The approach reduced travel time, costs and exposure to onsite safety risks.
• A shorter construction programme: Preparation work on the island was carried out in parallel with precast concrete fabrication in New Zealand, reducing the construction programme by approximately one month from the original five-month programme.
• Greater energy resilience: Access to renewable power can help alleviate uncertainty arising from energy price fluctuations and increase the potential for investment and economic activity.

WSP's multidisciplinary involvement in the renewable energy sector is helping improve life for communities embracing this technology. Our work on these remote-location turbines demonstrates our ability to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions while overcoming logistical and construction challenges.