National Grid has a statutory duty to connect new power generation to its electricity network. A number of new connection agreements have been signed by National Grid for the East Anglia region.

• Kings Lynn B 984MW gas-fired power station
• Sizewell C 1650MW x 2 nuclear power station
• South Holland 840MW gas-fired power station

In addition to this, a significant amount of potential offshore wind development has been identified in this area to help meet 2020 renewable energy targets.

Why Bramford to Twinstead?

The existing National Grid high-voltage transmission network in the East Anglia region has now reached the limit of its capacity. Any one of the above proposals will require National Grid to reinforce the system to ensure this additional electricity can flow into the wider network.

Bramford substation currently has 400,000 volt (400kv) overhead lines bringing power from the north and east, but only one overhead line taking power to the south and west.

This one line does not have sufficient capacity to carry the additional power produced by any of the new generating stations.

Therefore, a new overhead line will allow the electricity from the proposed new generators to flow around East Anglia and into the wider network.

Which route to take?

Four broad route corridor options for the new line between Bramford and Twinstead have been identified by National Grid, taking into account our statutory duties.

When identifying a route corridor option, we work to reduce the impact on local communities and the environment. We take into account current legislation and guidance and the views of statutory consultees such as Natural England, English Herritage and local authorites.