BBC Wales HQ, Cardiff,

The headquarters was designed not only as a broadcasting centre but also as a landmark public building. A striking atrium welcomes visitors and provides a connection between the BBC and the community, while open-plan workspaces and studios reflect the BBC’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and innovation.

Resilience and technical excellence were paramount. The building required uninterrupted power supplies for critical live broadcasting, specialist acoustic and lighting designs for studio environments, and robust IT and data infrastructure to meet the demands of modern digital content production. Evans Electrical was tasked with delivering the full electrical services package, ensuring the headquarters met BBC’s strict technical, operational, and sustainability standards.

Evans Activities Comprised

• LV Distribution & Power Systems – Comprehensive installation of LV switchboards, distribution panels, and containment systems to serve the entire building.
• Specialist Broadcast Power Systems – Delivery of high-reliability networks for studios, control rooms, and editing suites.
• Lighting & Intelligent Controls – Deployment of advanced LED lighting systems with intelligent scene-setting and daylight harvesting.
• Small Power & Floor Box Installations – Flexible underfloor busbar systems and extensive workstation connections.
• Mechanical & Plant Power Supplies – Electrical connections for HVAC, chillers, AHUs, and lifts, integrated with BMS.
• Life Safety Systems – Fire detection, VESDA aspirating systems, PAVA, induction loops, and central battery emergency lighting.
• Structured Cabling & IT Infrastructure – Fibre optic backbones, resilient cabling, and patch panels for IT and AV.
• Security & Access Control – CCTV, biometric access, intruder alarms, and centralised monitoring systems.
• UPS & Backup Power Solutions – Multiple UPS systems with generator-backed supplies for 24/7 resilience.
• Testing, Commissioning & Handover – Rigorous commissioning, O&M manuals, and phased staff training.
• Sustainability & Efficiency Measures – Energy-efficient LED lighting, smart controls, and BREEAM Excellent accreditation.

Key Outcomes

• Delivered a state-of-the-art broadcasting hub for over 1,200 staff in a landmark city-centre building.
• Installed a resilient and future-ready electrical infrastructure capable of supporting 24/7 broadcasting.
• Achieved BREEAM Excellent standards through sustainable design and energy-efficient systems.
• Provided bespoke solutions for broadcast environments, including resilient power and specialist lighting.
• Enhanced the visitor experience with a welcoming atrium and fully accessible facilities.
• Successfully navigated a complex city-centre build with multiple stakeholders and contractors.
• Contributed significantly to Cardiff’s Central Square regeneration and its media industry prominence.