We are planning essential upgrades to Blyth Substation to connect new customers to our electricity network and meet future energy demand. To do this, we will extend the existing substation and build a new substation nearby. This investment will connect wind power generated in the North Sea and a major new development in the area, the Cambois data centre campus.
As a regulated business, we have a legal obligation to connect customers to the network when requested.
Upgrading Blyth Substation is an important part of The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the electricity grid in generations. This project will connect homes, businesses and public services in the North East to more secure, cleaner, and home-grown energy from more affordable sources.
Our works will also support the growth of artificial intelligence and digital industries.
Blyth Substation is located just south of the former Blyth Power Station on Taranis Street, between Cambois and East Sleekburn.
Planning and consents
We expect to submit two planning applications to Northumberland County Council as the project will be delivered in two phases.
As the project develops, we will share more information on both phases of work.
Phase one - Extension of the existing substation
Phase one involves extending the current Blyth Substation to meet initial customer connection dates.
Most of this work will take place on our land. However, a small section – including new perimeter fencing – will require planning permission from the local authority.
Phase two – Construction of a new substation
Phase two will see a new substation built nearby. This will provide the additional long-term capacity needed to meet future electricity demand and connect new developments as the region continues to grow.
Stay informed
We will keep you updated as the project develops:
- Newsletter – subscribe to our newsletter for project updates and community news. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- Website – we will update this page regularly so please check for updates.
You can also contact our community relations team directly on:
- [email protected]
- 0800 130 3711 (Monday to Friday, 9am – 5:30pm)
We are committed to protecting your personal data. To learn more about how we handle and store your information, please see our privacy policy to learn more.
Current status
In March 2026, we submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening Request for Phase one to Northumberland County Council. This is an important milestone in the early stages of this project, as it helps us identify the potential environmental impact of our proposed work.
Please note, a separate EIA Screening Request will be submitted for Phase two.
Elsewhere, we are currently carrying out early surveys to better understand ground conditions and the environment around the site. These include assessments of local habitats and monitoring of birds, bats, reptiles and other species.
Project timelines
Phase one involves extending the existing substation. Subject to planning permission, construction of this extension is expected to be completed in 2028.
Phase two involves building a new substation nearby. Subject to planning approval, construction of the new substation is expected to begin once permission is granted, with completion anticipated by 2031. Further details will be shared as the project progresses.
Our investment in communities
Communities are at the heart of everything we do, and we like to leave a legacy in areas where we are looking to build new infrastructure. If planning approval is granted, we will deliver a dedicated community fund.
Shaped by the community, for the community, and developed in line with government guidance, these funds are designed to reflect local need and support projects that benefit local people.
We will work with residents, charities, community groups and elected representatives to understand what matters most and how the funding can make a lasting and positive impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
This project involves extending the existing Blyth Substation and constructing a new substation nearby. It forms part of The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the electricity grid in generations. The programme is strengthening the UK’s electricity network so it can deliver more secure, cleaner, home-grown energy to homes, businesses and public services.
Demand for electricity is rising, and the existing substation no longer has sufficient capacity. We are legally required to connect new customers, including major developments such as data centres and offshore wind projects. Upgrading the substation ensures the network can meet current and future needs.
Yes. The existing substation will remain in use and will be extended during phase one. The new substation will then be built nearby to provide long term capacity and resilience.
The Great Grid Upgrade is the largest overhaul of the electricity grid in generations. It comprises major infrastructure projects designed to scale up the grid, including our work in Blyth.
Delivering The Great Grid Upgrade will enable us to carry more clean, secure energy from where it is generated – like out in the sea by wind turbines – to where it is needed, boosting energy security and helping the nation become more self-sufficient.
Yes. Both phases require permission from Northumberland County Council under the Town and Country Planning Act. We will work closely with our partners and the community to help manage the impacts of our essential works.
Absolutely. Consultation is central to our approach. We will share information, listen to feedback and demonstrate how comments help shape our proposals.
As the project progresses, we will provide clear updates and offer a range of ways for people to get involved, so everyone who wants to have their say is able to do so.
We are carrying out detailed ecology surveys to understand local habitats and species. This helps us design the project to minimise environmental impacts and ensures we meet all regulatory requirements. These surveys are now underway.
Timelines are indicative and depend on planning permission. The phase one extension is expected to complete in 2028. Further information on phase two timelines will be shared in due course.
Subject to consent, a community benefit fund will be available when main construction begins on phase two. We will work with local people to decide how this funding should be used to support the community and local causes with lasting benefits.
By increasing network capacity, the project will enable clean energy generation and support major developments such as offshore wind and the Cambois data centre campus. This will help create jobs, attract investment and strengthen the North East’s position as a hub for clean energy and digital innovation.
Updates will be shared regularly on this webpage. You can also contact us directly at: [email protected] or on our Freephone: 0800 130 3711.