Power Flow Control is a new technology that can push power off overloaded lines and pull power onto underused lines. With this new power-electronic technology, we are now able to make the existing network more efficient, which may reduce the need to build new infrastructure.
The upcoming works are part of National Grid’s project to install new APFC equipment. Technologies like APFCs can help to make the existing network more efficient, intelligently pushing and pulling power across circuits and routing it to where capacity is available, freeing up electricity flow. Installing this innovative equipment at the existing substation will provide more consistent, real-time control over how energy is routed, supporting the ongoing need for renewable generation and capacity on the network.
South Shields substation works
The main construction work started on site in Spring 2025 and we anticipate that works on site will complete in 2027.
Work on site has included building two new compounds on land already owned by National Grid, in preparation for the equipment being installed. Other associated works have included installing new fencing.
Ahead of construction work starting, ground remediation works will take place to prepare the site for the new equipment. This will involve the delivery of heavy plant and equipment, and the removal of unwanted materials. As part of these works, there will be increased movements from site as we import and export materials, it is estimated that there will be around 20 truck movements each weekday over a 7 to 9 week period (800-900 truck movements overall).
The truck movements will occur during our normal working hours (7am – 6pm Monday to Friday) and will be co-ordinated by dedicated site staff liaising with drivers to ensure that avoid congestion on Hartford Road/Fenwick Avenue. We will try to minimise disruption to the local road network and noise will be kept to a minimum.
Following engagement with residents, we can advise that will be taking steps to address concerns regarding maintenance of the trees. Our intention is to lower the height of some of the trees closest to the residential fence lines on Colman Avenue. We are currently arranging this with our contractor, once we have confirmed dates for this, we will continue to keep you updated regarding this.
As we continue to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and increase the amount of clean energy that is generated, we will be using more electricity than ever. That means we will need a resilient electricity grid that is able to carry all this extra electricity to wherever we might need it.
Installing Power Flow Control technology at our substation in South Shields will allow us to provide a more efficient flow of electricity around the country.
Our normal working hours will be between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and 8am and 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays, if any necessary work needs to be completed. Essential activities that require continuous working will take place occasionally outside of these hours. In this instance, we will inform affected stakeholders accordingly.
Community news
In April we opened our gates of the substation to welcome a special guest, South Shields lad Ted Elliott, a seven-year-old pylon enthusiast. Find out more here.
Coming Up
Once the work to prepare the ground is complete, construction of the structures which will support the new equipment will take place.
We will try to minimise disruption to the local road network and noise will be kept to a minimum. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the local community during this vital work.
Other works
Northern Powergrid are undertaking work in the local area. This work will include some partial road closures, with temporary traffic lights in place.
Timeline
• Spring 2025 – The main construction work is underway on site from this date
• Spring 2027 – Works anticipated to finish on site
Have your say
National Grid is committed to engaging with communities at every stage of the project. Our dedicated community relations team works with local residents, businesses and community groups to ensure our work causes as little disruption as possible. Prior to the beginning of the main works, we held a local information event in Summer 2024, providing an opportunity for local residents to meet the project team, learn more about our proposals and ask any queries.
Community Grant Programme
Our Community Grant Programme is aimed at organisations and charities in areas where National Grid’s work impacts local people through our operations and site activities.
We provide grants for community-based initiatives run by charities and community groups that meet local community needs by providing a range of social, economic and environmental benefits.
If your project meets our criteria, you can apply for a grant of up to £10,000.
To find out more about how to apply, click here.