Principality Stadium – DRUPS Installation
- Sector: Sports & Leisure
- Project Type: Electrical Services – Critical Power Infrastructure
About this Project
The Principality Stadium in Cardiff is one of the UK’s most iconic multi-purpose venues, hosting international rugby matches, football fixtures, large-scale concerts, and global televised events. With a capacity of over 74,000, the stadium required a major upgrade to its electrical resilience to meet the increasing demands of modern broadcasting, event production, and critical life safety systems.
Evans Electrical were appointed to design, supply, and install a Diesel Rotary Uninterruptible Power Supply (DRUPS) system to provide instant, reliable backup power. Unlike traditional UPS systems, DRUPS technology ensures a seamless transition between mains and generator supply, offering zero break power to all essential services. This guarantees uninterrupted operation of lighting, broadcasting, safety, and IT systems, even during a mains power outage.
The project presented unique challenges, including the need to integrate new DRUPS infrastructure into an operational stadium without disrupting the ongoing schedule of international sporting fixtures and concerts. Close collaboration with the stadium’s facilities team and event management was critical to ensure all works were carried out safely, on time, and without impact to planned events.
Evans Activities Comprised
– Comprehensive Design & Coordination – Developed a fully coordinated design from RIBA Stage 4 onwards, including 3D modelling of containment and distribution. Worked closely with structural and mechanical teams to integrate the DRUPS system.
– LV Distribution Integration – Installation of new switchgear and modifications to existing LV panels, including provision of sub-main cabling and MCCB protection.
– Containment & Cabling Infrastructure – Installed heavy-duty containment systems and fire-rated cabling for compliance with stadium fire safety regulations.
– DRUPS Supply, Installation & Commissioning – Supplied and installed a high-capacity Diesel Rotary UPS system with full load bank testing.
– Critical Systems Connection – Connected emergency lighting, fire detection, security systems, PAVA, and broadcasting infrastructure to DRUPS.
– Earthing & Bonding Upgrades – Implemented upgrades to the earthing and lightning protection systems.
– Testing, Training & Handover – Conducted commissioning including black-start tests, provided training, as-fitted drawings, and O&M manuals.
– Post-Completion Maintenance & Support – Provided planned preventative maintenance for ongoing reliability.
Key Outcomes
– Uninterrupted Power Security – Zero-break power transfer ensuring uninterrupted operation of critical systems.
– Seamless Event Delivery – Installation completed with no disruption to scheduled events.
– Futureproofed Infrastructure – DRUPS system designed for current and future demand.
– Enhanced Safety & Compliance – All systems upgraded to meet large-scale venue regulations.
– Operational Confidence – Facilities team fully trained for DRUPS operation and maintenance.
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