In Pictures: New lattice pylons erected near Shurton
Pylons will connect Hinkley Point C onto the network
Work to connect Hinkley Point C power station to the existing network is progressing well near Shurton, as new pylons are completed.
National Grid contractors, Morrison Energy Services, have installed the transmission towers that are capable of carrying high-voltage energy, bringing the Hinkley Connection Project a step closer to connecting 6 million homes and businesses to low-carbon energy from the South West.
The team began construction works on the 13 pylons in February 2021, connecting the existing Hinkley Point B station to the new Shurton substation and realigning overhead transmission lines to it.
Works are progressing well on site, with the project remaining on schedule. The team first installed a temporary access point to support the construction of access roads and culverts and completed preparation work for the towers’ foundations.
Next foundations were constructed, creating foundation pads for the towers’ legs. As foundation sizes vary widely – depending on design parameters and soil types – sensitivity to the local surroundings has been key.
The team assembled the towers with steel bars, plates and general assembly drawings to produce the various component sections. The erecting of the towers saw the team at Morrison Energy Services group the various sections together using cranes.
With the towers now up, the team has begun the conductor stringing phase, where wires are pulled and secured in their mounts.
National Grid has worked closely with Morrison Energy Services and EDF throughout the construction process, ensuring that the work runs as smoothly as possible.
Olawale Ilori, Project Manager at Morrison Energy Services, said: “It’s good to see the conductor installation work coming along so well. The first phase of construction is almost complete and I’m glad to be part of this great team. It’s been tough at times, but our passion has kept us going.
“The collaborative form of working promoted by National Grid and the wider Hinkley Connection Project team has helped us navigate an array of challenges that could have affected the programme – they have been exceptional to work with.”
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A crane lifts the pylon sections into place |
Construction workers climbing new lattice pylon |
The top section is craned into position |
Pylon awaiting conductors that will carry 400,000 volts of energy |
