National Grid connection with Europe on track with new substation that could power one million homes
A PROJECT to connect the national electricity grid with the continent remains on track despite Covid-19, as it completes a substation that will power more than one million homes.
The IFA2 project will connect the electricity grids of the UK and France through underground cables stretching from Normandy to a converter near Solent Airport, in Fareham.
A new substation that will power one million homes thanks to the project will bring ‘vital investment' into the region, according Fareham MP Suella Braverman, who visited the site in Chilling Lane.
She said: ‘By injecting vital investment into the region, and placing Fareham at the heart of the country’s electricity network, this development represents a fantastic opportunity for our community.’
She added: ‘In spite of several logistical obstacles, principally caused by the coronavirus outbreak, the team at National Grid and IFA2 have managed to deliver this project on-budget and on-time. capable of powering up to 1 million homes. As part of a larger scheme to connect the electricity systems of the UK and France, this new infrastructure, which is nearing completion, is set to play a vital role in the country’s energy supply.’
Work is still ongoing to ensure both sides of the interconnector project will be ready to transfer electricity when it becomes operational by the end of the year.
Stephen Harris, Project Engineer at the Chilling Lane substation, said: ‘N ational Grid was delighted to welcome Attorney General and MP for Fareham, Suella to the site, and to show her the progress that has been made since her last visit.
‘This project is integral to the success of IFA2 and National Grid is very proud of the role that we played in connecting the national energy supplies of France and Great Britain.’
It will be the second link to France that National Grid has developed with RTE.