Homes and businesses in and around an Oxfordshire town are to benefit from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution’s £5 million investment in their electricity infrastructure to support their transition to low-carbon technologies.
This multi-million pound Witney Green Recovery project is a result of close collaboration with the energy regulator, Ofgem, and other electricity network operators when they set out to explore how early investment in the distribution network could drive green economic growth, create skilled jobs, and support the deployment of low-carbon projects.
SSEN’s substantial upgrade to the existing local network in Witney will provide a more efficient, robust and flexible network for nearly 30,000 homes and businesses in the immediate area through an additional capacity of 14.2MW; enabling an increased uptake of low-carbon technologies, such as electric vehicles, hear pumps and solar panels.
The works will include the replacement of two existing transformers and the switchboard within the Witney substation compound. The substation building itself will also be refurbished to accommodate the newly installed equipment.
SSEN’s Project Manager for the Witney upgrade, Galina Katrandzhieva, said:
“At SSEN, we are committed to investing in the future of our communities by enhancing our electricity infrastructure to support the transition to low-carbon technologies. The Witney project is a crucial part of our Green Recovery Programme, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on the local economy and environment.
“The entire project is taking place on an existing SSEN site, so there will be no roads closures or Planned Service Interruptions (PSI) and therefore will cause no disruption to customers living or working in the area.
“You may see some of our vehicles coming to and from the site - these are the teams who are working to improve your power supplies and build the capacity into your network that will enable you to take up more low-carbon technologies and help you meet you Net Zero ambitions.”
Part of an overall £41m Green Recovery investment to deliver increased network capacity of over 122MW, which will enable SSEN to upgrade its north and south networks to accommodate increased demand for electric vehicle charging and electrification of heat, the Witney programme of works is scheduled for completion in early 2026.
SSEN’s commitment to modernising the electricity infrastructure in Witney is testament to its dedication to sustainability and economic growth. By investing in advanced and efficient technologies, SSEN is ensuring that the network is ready to meet the future energy needs of its customers and communities.