Image credit: National Grid

UK, England, Kent: National Grid has achieved a major milestone in constructing its new 400 kV Wallend substation on the Isle of Grain, Kent, with the completion of the main building structure that will house critical electrical equipment. The project is part of National Grid’s $3.6 B (£2.7 B) investment to enhance the resilience, flexibility and capacity of the South East electricity network.

The Wallend substation will enable connections for several major energy projects, including the 1.4 GW NeuConnect HVDC interconnector linking the UK and Germany for the first time. The completed building now provides weather protection and insulation for the installation of Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ® 420 kV SF₆-free gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), a technology that reduces greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining high performance.

Main construction, including foundations, steelwork and cladding, began in 2025 with Balfour Beatty as Principal Contractor. The next stage will see installation and testing of the GIS and other electrical systems to prepare the substation for connection to the wider grid.

National Grid is also inviting local organisations to apply for grants of up to $27,000 (£20,000) through its Community Grant Programme to support projects delivering lasting social, environmental or economic benefits.

Hannah Ward, EPC Project Manager, highlighted the substation’s role in strengthening the UK’s electricity network and enabling cleaner, more secure power. The facility will improve grid stability, increase flexibility, and support the UK Government’s Clean Power 2030 goals, reinforcing the Isle of Grain as a key energy hub.

Source: National Grid

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