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National Grid has launched a new 132kV substation in Barking, East London, aimed at enhancing electricity supply to local residents, businesses and rail services amid ongoing regeneration efforts in the area formerly occupied by a coal power station.
The newly commissioned substation establishes a crucial link between UK Power Networks’ and National Grid’s high voltage transmission network, facilitating the delivery of electricity to approximately 20,000 homes. It also plays a role in supporting low-carbon transport initiatives by supplying power to a nearby Network Rail feeder station, which is essential for electrified train routes.
Developed in collaboration with principal contractor Murphy, the construction of the substation involved transferring existing circuits and connections to the new facility without any interruptions to service for local consumers.
Replacing a 132kV substation that had served the area since the 1950s, the new installation improves infrastructure and capacity for future demand, featuring 17 bays for connection to the grid and potential for further upgrades. The previous substation, designed in the post-war era, had been built with a focus on camouflage to prevent detection by enemy aircraft.
Located adjacent to a larger 275kV/400kV substation, the new facility aims to reinforce the electricity supply in East London, a region experiencing increasing demand for power.
This development follows National Grid’s recent projects, including the activation of the first circuit on its London Power Tunnels 2 project in August and the commissioning of the new Littlebrook substation in Dartford, Kent, in April, which is also intended to link more homes to sustainable energy sources.
National Grid Electricity Transmission project director Laura Mulcahy said: “Our new Barking substation is a crucial upgrade to the electricity network in East London, and will help future proof it as electricity demand in the capital grows.
“Barking has played a crucial role powering London since its first power stations were built in the early twentieth century, and with these latest network upgrades our infrastructure in the area will continue to support the energy transition for decades to come.
“It’s been an exciting project to be a part of, and the team and I are delighted the new Barking substation is fully energised and connected to our network.”
UK Power Networks programme manager, capital programme Andrew White said: “We’re delighted to work with National Grid on this major infrastructure project serving 20,000 locals in Barking and East London. This investment will benefit residential and industrial supplies and comes as part of our commitment to reinforcing reliable energy for many years ahead.”
Murphy managing director for energy Liam Corr said: “Our company purpose is to improve life by delivering world-class infrastructure and this project is a great example of that – we are proud to have played our part in future proofing energy supplies for the local community.”
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