A new 100-tonne transformer is delivered to UK Power Networks substation in the City of London as part of a £5 million electricity upgradUK Power Networks’ engineers are working on a £5 million project to power the next skyscrapers on the City of London’s famous skyline.
Britain’s biggest electricity distributor, UK Power Networks, is jointly investing in a power upgrade with developers to double the power capacity of an electricity substation which will enable further growth in the financial district.
Engineers are adding additional capacity equivalent to powering an additional 27,000 homes to the electricity network, which serves the Bishopsgate and Moorgate area of London. The extra energy capacity will support economic development in the part of London known for buildings such as The Gherkin, Cheesegrater and Walkie Talkie.
A trio of new transformers, weighing over 100 tonnes each, will play a crucial role by stepping down the voltage so it can be safely delivered on to further substations and customers.
Jonathon Peirce, project manager at UK Power Networks, said: “We are investing in new equipment to continue providing safe and reliable power supplies for existing and future customers, supporting further construction work in this exciting and dynamic part of London.
“The next generation of landmarks on the horizon will be powered by the investment we are making now to meet the area’s growing demand for power. It is a significant investment that will deliver wide benefits for the area for years to come.”
Picture credit City of London Corporation
UK Power Networks is investing £1.5 billion in London’s electricity network over the eight years to 2023 to support growth and development and maintain safe and reliable electricity supplies for homes and businesses.
The first transformer was switched on in the City of London earlier this year, the second was recently delivered to site and is due to be connected to the network in September and the third is due to be brought online in the spring.
UK Power Networks commissioned more than 500 megawatts of capacity across London in 2018. The power company serves 2.3 million London homes, businesses, schools and hospitals. With more than 10 million people due to be living in London by 2030, UK Power Networks is making sure the electricity network is ready for the future.
UK Power Networks owns and maintains the network of cables, power lines and substations that deliver electricity supplies to 18 million people across the South East, London and East of England. London remains the most reliable electricity network in the UK with supplies 99.997% reliable.