Power projects: the role of the contractor

The author describes the development of contracting from the early days to the emerging role of the lead contractor in major overseas power projects today. The look at history shows how the role of the contractor has evolved in parallel with the development of the UK power industry. The significance of the concept of UK Ltd. is discussed together with the important role of the lead contractor with strong project management skills and experience to bring together not only technical and construction activity but also commercial and financial aspects of a large construction project. Developments in opportunities for renewable energy projects at home and overseas are reviewed. The author concludes with a reference to the challenge facing contractors in the changing scene worldwide in power sector construction projects