SP Energy Networks Commits £20m to Major Grid Enhancements Across South Lanarkshire

Image Credit: SP Energy Networks

SP Energy Networks has revealed a substantial investment of nearly £20 million to modernise South Lanarkshire's electricity infrastructure. This move underscores the company's commitment to boosting renewable energy integration in the wind-rich area.

In a recent announcement, the electricity network operator highlighted several vital initiatives funded by this investment. These include significant upgrades at Brokencross Wind Farm and Elvanfoot substation and an ambitious proposal for a new high-voltage substation at Coalburn North.

These projects are designed to lay the groundwork for enhanced renewable energy connections to the grid, ensuring the infrastructure can support the growing demand for electricity—especially from low-carbon technologies like electric vehicles and heat pumps, which are becoming increasingly prevalent among local consumers.

"We are delighted to announce a significant investment in South Lanarkshire's energy infrastructure to boost renewable energy and support the uptake of green technologies, like heat pumps and electric vehicles," said Pearse Murray, SP transmission director at SP Energy Networks. "The completion of our Brokencross Wind Farm connection project marks a major milestone in our journey in the area. This initiative, alongside our other local projects, promises substantial benefits for the local community. It will ensure a more secure energy supply regardless of network demand and support the local adoption of renewable energy."

In its latest update, SP Energy Networks disclosed a significant £11 million investment in enhancing the Elvanfoot Substation. This strategic upgrade is part of a broader effort to strengthen the region's network infrastructure and expand the capacity for clean energy generation.

The project, slated for completion by the end of 2024, is being executed by expert contractors, including Kolektor, RJ McLeod, and Kirby Engineering. Key elements of the upgrade involve installing two new transformers, which will significantly improve the substation's ability to manage and distribute electricity generated from wind power efficiently.

Moreover, SP Energy Networks announced the successful completion of a £7 million enhancement at the Brokencross Wind Farm substation. This upgrade features a new collector substation designed to channel the wind farm's energy into the larger electricity network. As a result, the upgrade will facilitate the connection of 10 additional wind turbines to the Coalburn Grid Substation, generating enough energy to power up to 50,000 homes annually.

In addition to these completed and ongoing projects, the company has proposed a new high-voltage grid substation near the existing Coalburn Substation. This proposed infrastructure aims to further increase the flow of renewable energy to surrounding communities.

As part of the planning process for the proposed Coalburn Grid Substation, SP Energy Networks has engaged with the local community by holding consultation events in the village of Coalburn. These events provided residents with detailed information about the new substation proposal and offered a platform for community feedback and comments.