UK Power Networks, a distribution network operator for electricity, is adopting new technology for overhead line reinforcement, enhancing the resilience of its electricity networks across the South East and East of England.
In a UK first, the electricity firm is investing in innovative pole-support technology, aiming to bring security and resilience to existing overhead power lines. The new steel support trusses are driven six feet into the ground, hugging the side of the pole and strengthening it against prevailing winds and third-party damage.
UK Power Networks, which delivers electricity to 8.5 million homes and businesses across London, the South East, and the East of England, uses more than 45,000 kilometres of overhead lines across rural areas. Over time, wooden poles can decay and get damaged by debris during storms – if they move, it can cause power cuts for local communities.
The new support trusses can be safely installed while the network is carrying live electricity, compared to replacing a whole pole, which needs the electricity to be turned off so operators can work.
The trusses can withstand more than half a tonne (around 6,456 kilograms per square metre) of pulling force, compared to 100mph winds (around 125 kilograms per square metre). In addition to the sheer strength, there are environmental benefits in the supply chain because they reduce the need to replace wooden poles. An overhead line team can also install multiple pole supports a day, compared with spending one day on average replacing a wooden pole. The supports can also be re-used with new poles when required.
So far, around 8,000 pole supports have been installed in locations including Luton, King’s Lynn, the Norfolk coast, and in rural Kent as part of an ongoing investment in upgrading 70,000 poles, more than 10% of the electricity network.
Ian Young, Asset Strategy Manager at UK Power Networks, comments, “In a UK first, we’re tackling the challenge of deteriorating wooden poles in our overhead line network by supplementing a replacement programme with the introduction of steel pole supports, which are a faster, more sustainable alternative to full pole replacements.
“This approach not only boosts our resilience, especially in occasional events such as storms, but also helps us maintain service to local communities without needing to de-energise the network.
“The supports, which have been used in the US for decades, can see up to eight installations completed in the time it takes for one traditional replacement, whilst reducing our environmental impact and reliance on imported timber. Power supplies are already 99.9% reliable and this solution enhances our repair toolkit, improves customer service, and supports our sustainability goals.”
Commercial and Business Director of AUS, which makes the pole supports, Richard Brown says, “Recently acquired by Osmose Utilities Services, AUS is exceptionally proud to have partnered with UK Power Networks to successfully introduce and install our steel trussing solutions to extend distribution wood pole asset life.
“The results delivered are now leading to numerous partnerships with other DNOs throughout the UK and Ireland to offer similar network benefits.”
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