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H&MV Engineering recently welcomed our Electrical Engineering students to a site visit at their Killonan 220 kV GIS Substation project, offering a unique, hands-on glimpse into the world of high-voltage infrastructure. Read further below on what H&MW have to say!

We were thrilled to open the gates of our Killonan 220 kV GIS substation project to a group of bright and enthusiastic Electrical Engineering students from the ������. As part of H&MV Engineering’s ongoing commitment to early career engagement, this site visit was designed to offer students a practical glimpse into the world of high-voltage substation construction, far beyond the classroom whiteboard.

Students were greeted by members of our Engineering and Site teams who were eager to share their expertise and answer questions. From the very start, the students were engaged and curious – keen to understand how theoretical knowledge transforms into critical infrastructure that powers our communities.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr John Clifford, Course Director, Bachelor/Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering said:

“This visit to Killonan Substation represents precisely the kind of industry engagement that transforms our students’ understanding of electrical engineering. Watching theory materialise into such impressive infrastructure was invaluable for our first-years. What particularly impressed me was how H&MV Engineering’s team demystified the complexities of high-voltage systems and showcased the meticulous planning behind GIS technology implementation. These practical insights into safety protocols and project management at such a significant ESB Networks site offer learning experiences that simply cannot be replicated in a lecture theatre. Our partnership with forward-thinking companies like H&MV Engineering is essential to developing graduates who are not just academically sound, but industry-ready from day one.”

The Killonan Project: Powering Our Future

The Killonan 220 kV GIS substation represents a significant advancement in Ireland’s power infrastructure. As the first project awarded from ESB Networks’ CON 885 Turnkey Framework, this development holds strategic importance for the region’s power distribution network.

H&MV Engineering is delivering this project through a comprehensive EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) approach, with responsibility for the detailed design, procurement, supply, installation and commissioning of the entire substation. As the appointed Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) and Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS), our team is managing all aspects of safety and quality throughout the project lifecycle.

During the tour, students were particularly interested in our cutting-edge design processes, including the full 3D modelling of the station which allows for precision planning and efficient implementation. Our team demonstrated how these innovative approaches help overcome complex engineering challenges while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Why We Host Site Tours

At H&MV Engineering, we believe that true learning extends beyond the classroom. While textbooks and lectures lay the foundation, it’s hands-on experiences that truly ignite curiosity and inspire future careers. That’s why we regularly host site tours for students – to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

Site visits like this one provide an invaluable opportunity for students to:

• See large-scale engineering projects in action: Witnessing a live substation project up close helps students grasp the scale, coordination, and precision involved in delivering critical infrastructure.
• Understand the complexity of substation construction: From civil works and cable routing to commissioning and energisation, students gain insight into the multi-disciplinary nature of our projects.
• Engage with industry professionals working on the ground: Our engineers and project teams share first-hand knowledge, answer questions, and offer practical insights that you won’t find in a textbook.
• Visualise career paths within the power and energy sector: By seeing real roles in action, from design to delivery, students can better understand where their skills and interests might fit within the industry.

These tours aren’t just informative; they’re also a way to spark ambition and build connections. We’re proud to offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we’re powering a more sustainable, electrified future – and to help the next generation of engineers and professionals find their place in it.

Technical Insights Shared

During the visit, our team provided students with detailed insights into several aspects of modern substation development:

• The integration of Gas Insulated Switchgear technology and its advantages in modern power distribution
• The rigorous quality control processes we implement, including our comprehensive Integrated Test Plans (ITPs)
• How our Construction Management Plans and Safety Management protocols ensure both efficiency and worker protection
• The critical importance of detailed documentation through electrical as-built drawings and comprehensive handover files

Students were particularly engaged when shown how our 3D modelling capabilities allow for advanced spatial planning and conflict detection before construction begins, significantly reducing on-site issues and improving project delivery timelines.

Looking Ahead

We plan to strengthen our ongoing relationship with the ������ and other third-level institutions across Ireland. These educational partnerships provide mutual benefit, giving students practical industry exposure while helping us connect with talented future engineers who may one day join our team.

H&MV Engineering is committed to supporting the development of Ireland’s next generation of electrical engineers. Our graduate recruitment programme offers promising students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across various disciplines within our organisation, with many going on to build rewarding long-term careers with us.

By opening our doors and sharing our knowledge, we aim to bridge the gap between education and industry – and hopefully, inspire the next generation of engineers to pursue careers in energy infrastructure.

Interested in Learning More?

For educational institutions interested in arranging similar site visits, please contact our Early Careers team.

For students interested in career opportunities, internships, or our graduate programme, visit to learn more about joining the H&MV Engineering team.