This week, local MP Suella Braverman visited a new substation at Chilling Lane, which will soon be capable of powering up to 1 million homes. As part of a larger scheme to connect the electricity systems of the UK and France, this new infrastructure, which is nearing completion, is set to play a vital role in the country’s energy supply.
Following her visit, Suella Braverman praised both the National Grid and IFA2 (Interconnexion France-Angleterre 2), for making such excellent progress. The project is on-time and under budget, despite the coronavirus outbreak; indeed, enhanced safety measures – including adherence to social distancing – have been strictly observed, to overcome any potential delays.
The facility at Chilling Lane has been part of the nation’s high voltage network for 40-years and was previously used to connect the electricity cables that run under Southampton Water to the existing pylons that run north-south to a substation near Lovedean.
The new infrastructure will be connected, via underground cables, to the converter at Daedalus, which receives power from Tourbe in Normandy. The substation will, therefore, allow the power from the interconnector, via the converter station, to be fed into the national transmission network. This development ensures a diverse and secure source of electricity.
The construction process has not adversely affected local residents, and the reception has been largely positive. The height of the plant’s equipment is lower than the old overhead lines, and efforts are being made to plant trees around the fences that enclose the site.
Commenting, Suella Braverman Said:
“I am delighted to learn that the new substation at Chilling Lane is nearing completion. By injecting vital investment into the region, and placing Fareham at the heart of the country’s electricity network, this development represents a fantastic opportunity for our community.
In spite of several logistical obstacles, principally caused by the coronavirus outbreak, the team at National Grid and IFA2 have managed to deliver this project on-budget and on-time. Such perseverance and efficiency will be vital as projects across the country look to level-up our infrastructure.”
