National Grid (NG) is moving forward its Great Grid Upgrade (GGU) programme as decarbonisation and alternative energy becomes a priority.
The latest developments in the scheme include approximately 180 km of new electricity network between existing substations in Norwich, Bramford and Tilbury and a new substation in Tendring that will connect to an offshore wind generation and interconnector.
This infrastructure will transport 6 gigawatts to power 6 million homes in East Anglia and across the country.
As the UK still suffers from high energy bills, the government and NG invest in schemes like the GGU and the British energy security strategy (BSS) to develop more independent, low-carbon energy sources.
Background
Electricity generation by Major Power Producers is up by 7.5%, and renewables are up by 15% due to increased capacity and more favourable weather conditions, with offshore wind generation at a record three-monthly high level.
The energy infrastructure market has steadily increased since 1997, the energy sector being the second largest in the market (24%) behind mining and quarrying, according to the Office of National Statistics.
In terms of workforce, 734,000 people are employed directly and indirectly in the energy sector.
Current infrastructure plans
Moving in line with decarbonisation efforts and more independent energy sources, the government estimates that £50 billion in construction capital is needed to build the UK’s offshore wind pipeline by 2030.
NG launched the £9 billion GGU partnership in May, with bids still open to firms for design and construction-related works.
The deadline for interested firms is 30 July, and NG expects the programme to last 12 years.
As seen in Teesside and Scotland, NG’s scheme in East Anglia represents the current investment in offshore wind farms and energy production.
“We’re proposing new infrastructure that will connect this green energy to the grid and allow clean electricity to power homes and businesses across East Anglia and the UK, boosting our home-grown energy security and progress towards net zero,” said Liam Walker, project director for Norwich to Tilbury.
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