National Grid Electricity Transmission

We own and maintain the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales. Every time a phone is plugged in, or a switch is turned on, we’ve played a part, connecting you to the electricity you need.  

We take electricity generated from windfarms and other power sources and transport it through our network of pylons, overhead lines, cables, and substations. It then goes on to separate lower voltage local distribution networks, which connect directly to homes and businesses. 

We're investing for the future, connecting more and more low carbon electricity to our network - it’s a crucial role and pivotal in turning the UK’s net zero ambitions into reality.

Infographic showing facts and figures from National Grid Electricity Transmission

The Great Grid Upgrade

What's a windy day got to do with a good hair day? Find out more about The Great Grid Upgrade - the largest overhaul of the UK's electricity grid in generations.

Find out more

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What to do in a power cut

Find out how to report a power cut, plus important safety advice.

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Who is my distribution network operator?

Your distribution network operator can help you with queries about connecting your property, power cuts or moving your meter

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Connecting to our network

Whether you have a large or small project, we're here to help you get connected to the national electricity transmission network.

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Working near our assets

Access guidance and support for working near our electricity transmission assets, including overhead lines and underground cables.

Cowley – Culham Jet – Didcot project website

Infrastructure projects

Learn about the infrastructure projects we're working on and how those will help deliver a cleaner greener future and ensure we continue to keep the lights on.

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Our state-of-the-art testing facility

Deeside Centre for Innovation is a unique environment where electricity network assets can be tested under real life conditions, 24/7.

More about our activities

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How we protect the network in extreme heat

Find out about some of the measures we take to keep electricity flowing safely when temperatures soar.

What is a pylon?

Pylons – also known as electricity transmission towers – are the structural supports that have carried the UK’s network of high-voltage overhead power lines for nearly 100 years.

Our 2021–2026 Environmental Action Plan

Our environmental vision is to build a sustainable electricity network, which makes a positive contribution to the environment.

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Our whole system approach

We’re working to build a fairer and more affordable energy system, with Whole System at the heart of this approach.

Keeping the network protected during storms

As owners of the network in England and Wales, we have a number of approaches in place to deal with potential issues that severe weather might cause.

A drone being used by National Grid to inspect a pylon and power lines

Using drones to maintain and repair the network

Did you know we have a fleet of drones to carry out inspection work on our overhead power lines network across England and Wales?