£2 B power line planned between Grimsby West and Norfolk
National Grid has launched a consultation on a proposed 140 km long overhead power line linking Grimsby West to Walpole, Norfolk.
Image for illustration purposes.
UK: National Grid has launched a consultation on a proposed 140 km long overhead power line linking Grimsby West to Walpole, Norfolk.
The company has said the infrastructure is required to cope with increases in demand. It will act as a key conduit, transferring power from the North to the Midlands. An overhead line with five substations is seen as the most cost-effective option to create the link. It will still cost in the region of £2 billion, and would be operational from 2033.
The proposal comprises a new 400 kV overhead transmission line, new substations at Grimsby West and Walpole, and three along the way in Lincolnshire. It will be able to transport 6 GW of power. Members of the public will have the opportunity to share their feedback on the proposals.
Ben Muncey, project director for the proposed powerline, commented: “This reinforcement between Grimsby and Walpole is essential in the UK’s journey to net zero by 2050 and is part of a wider programme to upgrade the entire network. We look forward to hearing views from members of the public and we welcome feedback on our proposals.”
Electricity demand is anticipated to double by 2050. The current network can transport 11.6 GW from the North to the Midlands, enough to power 12 million homes, but by 2033, with renewable sources and interconnectors in northern England and Scotland, about 29 GW needs to flow between the North and Midlands. Upgrades to existing lines can be carried out, however, these will only get boundary transfer capacity up to 14 GW. Underground alternatives and an offshore line would cost over £12 billion and £10 billion, respectively
Source: GrimsbyLive