Distribution network operator UK Power Networks is reportedly investing more than £2.6 million to future-proof electricity supplies in Sheerness on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent.
The company is delivering an upgrade at the Sheerness Primary Substation to connect a new customer to the network, increase capacity, and upgrade the network for more than 6,100 existing homes and businesses.
The project will see the connection of a third transformer at the substation, boosting capacity to 32 megawatts.
Once operational, the new transformer will receive electricity at 33,000 volts and reduce it to 6,600 volts for distribution across the area.
The transformer, weighing 29 tonnes, was recently delivered to the site and installed on a custom-built bund using a 110-tonne crane.
As part of the upgrade, a redundant storage building at the substation was reconstructed to make way for a new switchroom. This will house new switchgear to safely control and distribute power, and new underground cabling will connect it to the network.
Increasing capacity, future-proofing the network
Kaja Kacperska, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, comments, “While we provide a new customer connection to the network, we are taking the opportunity to increase capacity and future-proof the network, delivering long-term benefits for the area.
“This investment will help us maintain safe and reliable power supplies for thousands of homes and businesses and support the transition to low-carbon technologies in line with the UK’s clean energy goals.”
Steve Quinn, Project Manager at Manders Building Contractors, adds, “Delivering the transformer marked a significant milestone in this project.
“We’ve successfully reconstructed the switchroom to house new switchgear and installed a new transformer bund.
“Our team is proud to work with UK Power Networks to help safely deliver this project to high standards and support the lasting benefits for the wider community.”
Logistics for the transformer delivery and installation were supported by global supply chain operator GEODIS. This included port collection, inspection, transport, providing specialist heavy-lift equipment and teams, on-site coordination, and waste handling.
The investment forms part of UK Power Networks’ broader investment programme, with more than £800 million being invested last year across the South East, London, and the East of England.
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