SC&M (Croonwolter&dros and Mobilis) cleverly builds high-voltage substation Tilburg

The construction of the 380 kV high-voltage substation in Tilburg is a key project in the fight against grid congestion. For the realization of this substation, SC&M, a partnership between Croonwolter&dros and Mobilis, is the main contractor integrally responsible for the complete package of civil, structural and electrical engineering work. Project director Jochem Mol explains how prefab foundations, smart test methods and close cooperation with TenneT and partners ensure pace and quality.

Integrally responsible

“The scope of our work covers the entire new construction of the station,” Mol says. “From concrete foundations, steel structures and portals to installations, field houses and the central service building where all the technology comes together. Our package also includes the integration of three transformers, telecom and cable connections. This is not a single discipline, but a total task in which design, execution and testing are seamlessly integrated.”

Based on the basic design and TenneT's requirements, SC&M worked out a final design and then an implementation design. By now most of the civil works have been completed, the transformers and coils are in place and some 160 kilometers of cable are in the ground. “We are now in the commissioning phase: testing and making it ready for use step by step.”

Prefabrication speeds up work

Special in Tilburg is the use of Mobriq, a prefabricated concept for foundation beams developed by Mobilis. This was previously used successfully at Zuidplaspolder, also a TenneT project. “It is based on a standard configuration from TenneT, which allows you to prefabricate quickly and efficiently,” Mol explains. “For Tilburg, we adapted the concept slightly to the specific situation, and that helped us enormously to meet the schedule.”

First time right

Also in the testing and delivery process SC&M chooses smart methods. With so-called ‘golden samples,’ one component is completely built, tested and coordinated with TenneT. “For example, we have to install over 120 pantographs. Then we first make one perfectly fine, approve it together with TenneT and then roll that out over all the others. That really is first time right: more efficient and more reliable.”

Croonwolter&dros is also deploying a system previously developed at Hollandse Kust Noord. “Via a direct link, the client always has real-time insight into the status of the delivery, which we pick up in phases. No piles of paper at the end, but a warm handover that inspires confidence.”

Partners in dialogue

In a project of this magnitude, changes are inevitable. According to Mol, it is the open dialogue with TenneT that monitors progress. “We always put the project first, above the interests of individual companies. Sometimes sharp, but always understanding. We sit at the table together as client and contractor, but above all as partners in crime.”

The cooperation extends to all parties involved. Croonwolter&dros“ experienced project team, which had previously operated successfully at Hollandse Kust Noord, was fully transferred to Tilburg. ”That ensured continuity in direction and assembly. Together with the innovations of Mobilis, that shows how we use each other's strengths."

Commissioning and delivery

The next few months are devoted to commissioning and handover. At the end of the first quarter of 2026, the substation must be handed over to TenneT in an operational condition. Mol: “Projects like this show that SC&M is a fully-fledged partner for TenneT. With two TBI companies joining forces, we can tackle the challenges in the energy world together and realize solutions that move the Netherlands forward.”