National Grid submits planning application for new Navenby electricity substation

The proposed 400 kilovolt (kV) substation will help meet growing electricity demand and connect new sources of home-grown, cleaner power from more affordable sources, ensuring communities in Lincolnshire and beyond continue to benefit from a secure and resilient energy system.

The proposed Navenby substation forms part of National Grid’s continued investment in the Midlands, with £1.7bn planned between 2026-2031 to maintain, upgrade and develop the electricity network, and is part of The Great Grid Upgrade – the largest overhaul of the electricity network in generations.

 Low-carbon energy projects have requested new connections to the electricity network in the Navenby area. As a regulated business, National Grid has a legal obligation to meet these requests.

If approved, the new substation would be located approximately 1.4 kilometres east of Navenby, to the north of Heath Lane. It would be an open‑air substation with a maximum height of 15 metres. Four new pylons are proposed as part of the plans, while two existing pylons on the site would be removed. 

The plans have been shaped by extensive technical and environmental assessments, as well as feedback from local communities following a public consultation held in autumn 2024. This includes enhancements to landscaping to improve screening, to help the substation blend more effectively into its rural surroundings.

The proposals also include a commitment to deliver at least 10% Biodiversity Net Gain. This will be achieved by protecting existing landscaping and trees around the site boundary and enhancing habitats where possible.

Matt Doherty, Project Development Manager at National Grid Electricity Transmission, said: “Feedback from our consultation has directly shaped these proposals, including changes to the design and landscaping of the site.

“The proposed substation is needed to help meet growing electricity demand and will help ensure communities across Lincolnshire have a resilient and reliable power supply as everyday life becomes increasingly electrified. Strengthening the network is essential to support local businesses, future jobs and the connection of more secure, cleaner, home‑grown energy from more affordable sources.

“We also want host communities to see clear benefits, including community funding for local projects, skills, jobs, and environmental improvements.”

Benefits for local communities

Communities that host new electricity infrastructure should benefit from doing so. Subject to planning approval, just over half a million pounds will be available to support local communities and the wider area, and National Grid will be inviting communities to share their views on how this funding could best be used.

Across the East Midlands, National Grid will also build partnerships and invest in skills, employment, and supply chain opportunities, aiming to leave a positive socio-economic legacy alongside reliable grid infrastructure for the region. 

Next steps

National Grid will continue to work closely with local communities, landowners and anyone interested in the project as the planning process progresses.

If planning permission is granted, construction would be expected to begin in 2027, with the substation becoming operational in 2029.

More information about the proposals can be found at:
https://www.nationalgrid.com/navenby