Shunt reactor delivery 12-13.07.26
9th July 2026
Eryri (English)
National Grid will be delivering a shunt reactor to Trawsfynydd substation in Gwynedd to support the new infrastructure being installed for National Grid’s Visual Impact Provision (VIP) project in the Eryri National Park.
The project will reduce the visual impact of the overhead electricity line across the Dwyryd Estuary between Minffordd and Llandecwyn in Eryri National Park by removing 10 pylons and 3km of overhead line and replacing them with electricity cables buried in a tunnel deep underground.
Shunt reactors are an essential part of a high voltage energy transmission system. Switching these on and off helps to keep electricity voltage stable, improving system reliability and network efficiency.
The shunt reactor is due to arrive by barge at Black Rock Sands on Sunday 12 July. A section of beach will be temporarily closed whilst the shunt reactor is unloaded to maintain public safety. It will then be transported by road to Trawsfynydd substation on Monday 13 July.
A specialist heavy haulage company, Collett Transport, is managing the delivery and transport of the shunt reactor on a large specialist vehicle. This will involve a full police escort along with private escort vehicles to manage traffic and ensure safety.
The route and timings have been carefully planned with local highway authorities and the police to minimise disruption. The shunt reactor will be transported along Morfa Bychan, through the centre of Porthmadog and along the A497. It will cross Britannia Terrace before joining the A487 in Minffordd, passing through Maentwrog and then along the A470 to the substation.
Residents, local businesses and organisations along the route have been informed of the delivery.
Mark Weightman, Site Manager at National Grid, said: “To coordinate the transport of this vital electrical equipment, we have worked closely with local authorities, relevant organisations and our specialist haulage contractor to minimise disruption to residents, local businesses and road users where possible.
“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the local community as we carry out this important delivery.”
Any queries regarding the delivery can be forwarded to the project team by emailing [email protected] or calling 0800 019 1898.
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