New underground cables go live
Following the successful installation and energisation of the first circuit of the new 132 kV twin circuit underground cables between the west end of Nailsea and Portishead substation in May 2021, the second circuit has now been energised.
Now live, the cables form part of Western Power Distribution’s (WPD) local distribution network serving the southwest.
The 10.5 kilometres of cables directly replaces the 9 kilometres of overhead lines and pylons that are being removed between Nailsea and Portishead, including those close to homes and gardens on the western edge of Nailsea. Pylons have already been removed on land owned by Nailsea Rugby Club.
The twin circuit cable is jointed in 11 locations, between Engine Lane, Nailsea, and WPD’s existing substation at Portishead, located in the western edge of Portbury Wharf Nature Reserve.
With the cables now live, we are working hard to reinstate the local area along the whole route.
Project Engineer Bruce Lockyer commented on the successful energisation of the second circuit: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone along the route for their understanding and patience over the last 17 months, while we carried out these essential works to install the underground cables.
“With the cables now live, we are working hard to reinstate the local area along the whole route. Our contractor, J Murphy and Sons are doing a fantastic job of reinstating local drystone walls. They’ve recently removed the temporary construction entrance on Washing Pound Lane and are continuing to return the area back to its original condition.”
