£22m work at power plant done
A MULTI-MILLION pound project has been completed for a major new substation next to a power plant on the outskirts of Widnes.
SP Energy Networks has completed a £22m initiative on the site in Cuerdley next to Fiddler’s Ferry.
The substation is now fully commissioned and will boost the security of electricity supplies for more than 90,000 homes and businesses in Merseyside and Cheshire, as well as facilitate over 50 megawatts (MW) of new development around the surrounding area.
The new modern facility operates at 132,000 volts, and is fully enclosed to offer enhanced protection from the weather.
More than 150 people have been employed in the planning, design and construction work which has been in development for over four years.
An SP Energy Networks spokesman said the extra ● capacity provided to the ‘local’ grid will also help to support the future increased uptake of electric vehicles and charging points and allow for the additional connection of small-scale renewable energy projects.
SP Energy Networks 132kV general manager Mark Sobczak said: “The electricity system across the UK is continually evolving, and all models show that the increased uptake of electric vehicles and the move towards local renewable energy sources will bring extra demand on to the grid.
“Investment projects such as the new grid substation in Cuerdley will be vital to ensure that the electricity network can cope with these changes, and also boost the security of supplies for the homes and businesses who already rely on a dependable grid system.
“This investment will benefit our local communities for decades to come.”