Fluvius combines utility works for R0 reconstruction with grid reinforcement in Machelen
Fluvius is working to reinforce the electricity grid in Machelen (Flemish Brabant). New electricity cabins were installed on both sides of the Brussels Ring Road near Petrus Schroonsstraat and surrounding streets will receive heavier cables. This will prepare the electricity grid there for the increase in electric vehicles, solar panels and heat pumps in the coming decades.
The works are closely linked to the renovation of the Brussels Ring Road (R0), which involves the relocation of many cables and pipes in the coming years. To carry out these operations as efficiently as possible and minimise disruption, Fluvius is working with De Werkvennootschap and other utility companies within the Synductis partnership.
Bundling works as much as possible
De Werkvennootschap, known for major mobility projects such as the renovation of the Vilvoorde viaduct, the reconstruction of the R4, Gentspoort and the North-South connection in Limburg, is in full swing with the redevelopment of the Brussels Ring and the construction of a tram line to the airport.
The R0 reconstruction is divided into 33 work zones (25 on the ring road and eight for the airport tram), spread over several years. Major adjustments, such as new cycle paths, bridges and interchanges, will be carried out in those zones. In 13 of those zones, Fluvius has to relocate cables and pipes. Where possible, those works will be combined with investments from its own grid reinforcement plan, such as modifying cabins and laying a total of 25 kilometres of heavier power cables.
Upgrade for power grid in Machelen
"Here in Machelen, De Werkvennootschap will increase the distance between slip roads and interchanges on the R0," says Johan Job, project manager at Fluvius. "The bridge over the R0 along Petrus Schroonsstraat, where our utility lines run today, will also be completely renewed. To accommodate that, we have built new electricity cabins on both sides of the ring road."
"We have combined those works with necessary reinforcements in the centre of Machelen, including by laying new 400-volt low-voltage cables. This is being done in Petrus Schroonsstraat, Villastraat, Oudstrijdersstraat, Henri Brounstraat, Viaductstraat, Pierre Raedemaekersstraat and Georges Ferréstraat, among others. In the coming years, we will apply this approach to other locations along the ring road. In time, De Werkvennootschap also envisages two large tunnel shafts under the ring road in which all utilities can be bundled, including our stronger electricity cables."
More info on the works on the Brussels Ring Road: Home | DWV
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