The local population might see an unusual sight this Autumn when electricity transmission company National Grid starts work on a £35 million project to refurbish a high voltage electricity line that runs more than 80 kilometres between Pembroke and Swansea. 

The line was built in the 1960s and some of the equipment has now come to the end of its operational life.  So, to ensure the region’s electricity supply remains safe and reliable, a team of almost 100 engineers will be replacing more than 85 pylons and replacing fittings on a number of other pylons along the line's route.

The main work starts in January 2010 and is expected to be completed by Spring 2011, however preparation will take place during Autumn 2009. Electricity supplies in the area will not be affected during this time.

Electricity Alliance West Project Manager Phill Roberts said:  “People expect to have electricity whenever then want it just by flicking a switch and in order for us to meet that demand we have to keep the transmission network in first class working order.”

The project has taken many months to plan and has involved extensive consultation with landowners.  Most of the work will take place on private land and will have little impact on the public, however residents may see workers on the pylons and where work directly affects residents, they will be kept fully informed.  There will also be an increase in traffic to and from pylons whilst the sites are being prepared.  A special helpline has been set up for members of the public who have any questions about the project: 0800 073 1047.

As part of the planning, a full environmental survey has been conducted and a qualified ecologist will be retained throughout the project to ensure any impact arising from the work will be kept to a minimum. 

This project is part of National Grid's national maintenance programme and represents a substantial investment in the region's power network.  The work will be carried out by the Electricity Alliance West, a partnership between National Grid and construction companies Babcock, Amec and Mott McDonald. 

ENDS

For further media information please contact Kirsty Anderson or Ernestine Meyer on 0117 907 3400.

National Grid
National Grid is an international electricity and gas company and one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. We play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to millions of people across Great Britain and northeastern US in an efficient, reliable and safe manner. We believe the power of action can play a major role in safeguarding our global environment for future generations and tackling the effects of climate change, providing all our customers with the highest standards of service through network investment and through our talented, diverse workforce.

National Grid owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales and operates the system across Great Britain. It also owns and operates the high pressure gas transmission system in Britain and its distribution business delivers gas to 11 million homes and businesses.

National Grid manages the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.  

*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.