Telematics to drive efficiency savings with nuclear power station fleet

The installation of a new telematics system is expected to improve the efficiency of both on-site vehicles and construction equipment at Hinkley Point C (HPC) nuclear power station.

HPC is one of the largest and most complex construction projects in Europe and is set to supply low carbon electricity to around six million homes on completion. 

A fleet of 85 vans and 10 HGV tractors transport engineers and construction machinery across the 2.7km² site in Somerset, creating the buildings that will house the two nuclear reactors.

Following successful pilot trials, civil engineering partnership Bylor (Laing O’Rourke and Bouygues TP) has invested in Webfleet’s automated Link 340 asset management solution.

“We operate more than 400 construction assets, from concrete mixers, excavators and generators to jet washers and JCBs, so it’s vital we keep a laser sharp focus on maintenance needs,” said Callum Waters, plant manager at Bylor JV - Hinkley Point C.

“With the new Webfleet system, we can schedule and manage our equipment and machinery maintenance tasks much more easily. 

“Not only do we have at at-a-glance view of where every piece of kit is at any given time, we also have powerful data on how each is being used and for how long.”

Waters explains that this is critical, because accurate working hours impact maintenance planning and site safety, and if they are operating at peak efficiency. 

“We can spot if equipment has been switched on but is idling, for example, and are anticipating lower energy costs as a result.”

Webfleet’s Pro M devices are also boosting productivity and improving operational safety for Bylor’s HGV tractor drivers. “We used to use radios to communicate with our drivers, but the hands-free in-cab system is a much more effective and safer way to dispatch job instructions,” continued Waters. 

“They can quickly and easily check on the Webfleet app to see their next job and be en route in seconds.” 

Cam 50 front-facing dashcams have also been integrated with the Webfleet system to protect drivers and provide evidence for any incidents or insurance claims outside of the main site.

Once the installation is complete, Bylor is hoping to leverage Webfleet’s CO² reporting module to measure and monitor the CO² produced by its vehicles, and identify any opportunities to cut emissions.