GRP for Energy & Utilities

The energy sector — from wind and hydro power to transformer and switchgear stations — has some of the most specific material requirements in the country. Structures must withstand high voltage, often be climbed up towers or narrow ladders, and at the same time handle Nordic climate with shifting temperatures, salt and harsh UV. GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) has become the first choice for platforms, handrailing, cable ladders and service walkways in modern power assets.

Byggkomposit supplies GRP structures to Swedish and European wind farms, both onshore and offshore, and to utilities operating substations, transformer stations and hydro plants. The material does not conduct electricity — eliminating the risk of arcing between personnel and live equipment — and is light enough that individual sections can be hoisted up turbine towers by hand. That shortens both installation and maintenance.

GRP applications in the energy sector

Wind turbines — towers, nacelles and service decks

Inside wind turbine towers, GRP platforms and grating are used for service decks and rest landings along the ladder up to the nacelle. The low weight is a safety issue — heavy steel components require crane lifts, while GRP sections can be hoisted manually. Handrailing and fall protection in the same material complete the system without adding conductive parts in an environment with strong magnetic fields.

Substations and transformer stations

Around high-voltage equipment, GRP handrailing and access routes are standard for modern grid operators. Because the material does not conduct electricity, it reduces the risk of arcing during work in live installations. The anti-slip surface handles snow, ice and rain — important in outdoor substations that must be accessed year-round.

Hydro and pumping stations

In hydroelectric plants, walkways and platforms are exposed to constant moisture, spray and sometimes chemical dosing. GRP structures are corrosion-free, easy to replace during overhauls and require no rust protection system.

Solar parks and battery storage

For large solar parks and ancillary battery equipment, GRP is used for service walkways between rows, handrailing and platforms at inverter stations. The low weight avoids heavy point loads on ground frames and rooftop structures.