Where do HV substations sit within a Net Zero energy strategy?

There are many instances where property developments will need a High Voltage Substation or upgrade to ensure their safe supply of electricity.

A substation is effectively required to alter the voltage levels, so that electricity flows to an acceptable level at points within the desired location.

Acting as a junction point, within the grid, they ensure that the power requirements of a specific area are met, securely, with minimal risk.

Large-scale projects often require a substation, which is a system facility that makes energy usable, for the specific needs of their development.

These substations tend to be smaller and are maintained by local distribution networks, but are still connected to the National Grid.

A substation is necessary when projects have large power needs, ensuring reliable delivery to different areas within the site, when the grid cannot provide the voltage directly.

What to consider when achieving Net Zero?

Many businesses are committed to achieving the Net Zero targets set by the government. There are many things to consider when trying to achieve that goal, such as an energy review.

The presence of a newly-built substation ensures a safe, secure and sustainable energy supply, installed for new business, reinforcement or network alteration and diversion.

In order to place a substation, Construction Design and Management (CDM) regulations must be met, including identifying and reducing risk during the design stage of the project.

Sustainability should be a key consideration for any new substation, which would perform essential functions within the electricity grid.

Much of the UK’s electricity network was built in the 1950s and needs updating. It’s estimated that almost half of substations may need replacing to meet Net Zero targets.

What technology is being installed?

EV charging, ASHP, Solar and other green technology are some of the equipment being installed, but what does that mean for the electrical grid?

Depending on the scale of implementing technology, the electrical supply will be part of that investigation.

Businesses are reviewing the need for gas and, in some cases, phasing it out. This poses a bigger strain on the electricity grid and, therefore, the existing electrical supply into buildings may not be large enough.

What to do?

If the existing electrical supply isn’t large enough, then a new larger supply in the form of a High-Voltage (HV) substation may be required.

What to consider with a substation?

• How much is power required
• Location of where the subsation will be installed
• Lead times for all steps and what is involved
• How much it is going to cost to review, tender, build, commission
• Procuring an energy contract
• Which stakeholders to engage
• Who installs the meter 

Connectus Utilities can offer a full management service of the HV substation installation.

Applications need to be made with a ICP (Independent Connection Provider) and iDNO (Independent Distribution Network Provider) for the works. 

The Connectus approach to delivering HV Substation support has delivered cost savings of, at least, 10 per cent, with coordination of the process.

For further technical information about HV Substation Management, click here. To contact us, call +44(0)330 221 6565 or +44 (0)793 915 5199 (also WhatsApp), fill out an enquiry form or utilise the live webchat function.