Chickerell Substation Upgrade

We’re investing £20 million to modernise Chickerell Substation near Weymouth. Our multi-million-pound upgrade begins this summer, strengthening the electricity network for over 60,000 homes and businesses across South-West Dorset.

Work is scheduled to begin in June 2025, replacing equipment that has been in service since the 1960s. This essential upgrade will enhance the resilience, capacity, and flexibility of the regional electricity network, supporting the transition to cleaner, greener energy.

What work is being delivered?

Our contract partner Aureos will carry out the works, which include:

• Installing new 132kv switchgear and transformer
• Replacing key 132kv and 33kv electrical components nearing the end of their operational lifespan
• Constructing a new elevated indoor switch-house to protect important infrastructure from salt corrosion
• Removing old 33kv outdoor switchgear

Why are we delivering this work?

We’re modernising Chickerell Substation with new equipment designed to serve the community for decades to come:

• Out with the old: Components that have been in place since the 1960s will be carefully removed and replaced with new equipment that features modern technology.
• Smarter systems: The upgraded infrastructure will support a more flexible, future-ready network, designed to integrate low-carbon technologies like solar panels, heat pumps, and electric vehicles.
• Built for the coast: Some of the new equipment will be housed indoors to protect against salt corrosion, improving long-term reliability.
• Enhancing safety and efficiency: Aging infrastructure not only poses a risk of failures but also leads to increased maintenance costs and safety concerns. Upgrading the substation will enable the installation of modern equipment that adheres to today’s safety and efficiency standards.

Community benefits

This investment is about more than just infrastructure, it’s about building a stronger, more resilient network for South-West Dorset:

• Power you can count on: Homes and businesses will benefit from a more reliable and efficient electricity supply.
• Ready for tomorrow: The upgraded substation will unlock vital capacity to support future growth, from powering new homes, to enabling more low-carbon technology, to bringing more green energy to the grid.
• Support and drive economic growth: This investment in the network will not only improve service for existing customers but will also support future economic growth in the region.

Where are we working?

All work is taking place within the boundaries of the existing Chickerell substation site, so we anticipate minimal disruption to the surrounding community.

However, residents in the immediate area may observe an increase in construction traffic as equipment and materials are transported to and from the site. Construction access and delivery routes have been carefully planned in consultation with local authorities to ensure safety and efficiency.

Our substation upgrade timeline

Please note, these dates are subject to change.

Environmental and community engagement

We have carried out comprehensive environmental and structural assessments to ensure the project is delivered responsibly and with minimal impact on nearby communities.

We are committed to working in close partnership with:

• Local residents and businesses
• The local authority
• Emergency services and utility providers

Together, we aim to deliver a project that not only strengthens the electricity network, but also ensures the local community is kept informed and involved wherever possible, through open communication, engagement opportunities, and a shared commitment to long-term benefits.

Good to know

There are no planned power supply interruptions (PSIs) as part of this work.