£4 million substation upgrade almost doubles capacity in Dagenham

UK Power Networks has installed three 26-tonne transformers at a Dagenham docks substation in a £4 million upgrade. 

The upgrade to the local power network should increase capacity, with UK Power Networks noting that the site’s capacity has ‘almost doubled, and cut noise for around 3,000 residents, with two new units energised in May, and a final transformer due to be online before the end of September. 

According to the UK Power Networks, the new transformers will step down power more efficiently and support reliable supplies to local homes and businesses. The project forms part of the operator’s ongoing programme to modernise the local grid and accommodate rising demand from electric vehicle charging and electric heating.

Mark Bacon, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, emphasised the long-term benefits of the initiative, noting, “This investment project will deliver long-lasting benefits in the area and support growth in demand for electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps and more low carbon technologies connecting to the electricity network.”