About the project
National Grid is extending Rainhill Substation, which is located in St Helens, Merseyside. This work will boost capacity for local energy distributor SP Energy Networks (SPEN) and connect a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
The Rainhill Substation extension is part of our broader efforts to upgrade the transmission network across the North West, ensuring the system remains resilient and capable of supporting regional growth and electricity demand.
Why is this project needed?
This extension is an important upgrade to increase capacity and help strengthen the electricity network in the local area. The connection to a new BESS helps store energy and release it when it’s needed most.
As the country moves towards using more renewable energy sources like wind and solar, storing energy becomes essential. This project helps make sure the electricity grid can handle those changes and keep power flowing when demand is high.
What will the work involve?
We’ll be extending the western side of the existing substation, on land already owned by National Grid. The substation will be extended by approximately 40 metres to accommodate a new supergrid transformer and the installation of a new cable system, which will connect into the existing substation.
The project will also include:
- Installing a new retaining wall
- Extending the access road to support future maintenance.
Project timeline
Staying informed
Throughout this project we’ll keep you informed about our activity on site and you can stay up to date by checking this website.
Frequently asked questions
About the Project
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the Rainhill Substation extension or would like to speak with a member of the project team, please contact our project team on:
Email: [email protected]
Freephone Community Information Line: 0800 160 1678
We’re extending the western side of Rainhill substation, on land we own. This extension is needed to provide additional capacity for SP Energy Networks (SPEN), the local distribution network operator and to connect a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The extension will help manage electricity demand and storage more effectively, contributing to a more resilient and flexible energy network for the region.
The UK’s energy system is undergoing its biggest transformation in generations through the Great Grid Upgrade, ensuring the network can carry more secure, cleaner, home-grown energy from more affordable sources. By extending Rainhill Substation, we’re ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to store and deliver clean energy when it is needed most. This helps balance supply and demand, stabilising the network and improving energy reliability for local homes and businesses.
No. The Rainhill Substation extension is classified as permitted development, meaning it does not require formal planning consent. However, we recognise that any construction activity can be disruptive if not managed well. That’s why we are committed to proactive engagement with the community, keeping residents, local representatives and site users informed and reassured throughout the project.
Civil works are scheduled to begin from January 2026 until autumn 2026. Installation and commissioning work will then take place inside the substation. We will provide clear information on the timeline of the project, including any activities that may cause temporary disruption. Updates will be shared via the project website and direct letters to nearby residents.
Construction and Local Impact
Some noise and disruption are inevitable during construction, but we are committed to minimising this as much as possible. The appointed contractor will adhere to strict noise management measures, and we will communicate in advance when noisier works are planned. We will also ensure that any concerns raised by residents or local users are addressed promptly.
We will work with our contractor to carefully plan traffic routes and manage vehicle movements to minimise disruption on local roads. Site access will be via a 5-metre-wide temporary single-track haulage road, with appropriate traffic management measures in place. Where necessary, signage will be provided, and access will be coordinated to ensure the safety of both road users and pedestrians. Any temporary changes to access or increased vehicle activity will be communicated in advance.
We’re about to begin the detailed design phase with our chosen contractor, so final plans for spoil removal, including volumes and timings, will be shared as soon as we have confirmed this information.
No power outages are expected for local residents or businesses as a result of the planned extension to Rainhill substation.
Community Engagement and Benefits
Yes. National Grid’s Community Grant Programme (CGP) provides funding of up to £10,000 for local projects and initiatives. The CGP is aimed at community organisations and charities in the area, and we welcome applications from registered, social enterprises and non-profit organisations.
Details on how to apply will be available via the project website, leaflets and during political and community engagement.
Further information on eligibility criteria and how to apply is available here.
While the Rainhill substation extension is a relatively small-scale project, we work with contractors who are encouraged to use local supply chains where possible.
Although the extension is being built on existing substation land, we are taking steps to minimise the environmental footprint of the works. This includes ensuring construction methods respect local amenity and habitats. As part of this, we will be installing a temporary bridge to protect the Pendlebury Brook culvert, in line with Environment Agency requirements.
While not required under permitted development rights, we are also aiming to achieve a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain through the project.
You can contact the Rainhill substation extension project team via our dedicated email [email protected] or freephone number 0800 279 3408. Information will also be updated on this project website.