National Grid plans major North Wales upgrade
Planning applications has been submitted for Pentir to Trawsfynydd project to reinforce high-voltage network, connect cleaner energy, and improve grid security.
Image for illustrative purposes
UK, Wales: National Grid has submitted planning applications for a major electricity network upgrade in North Wales, aimed at connecting cleaner energy to homes and businesses while supporting local economic growth. The proposals cover reinforcement and refurbishment of the high-voltage network between Pentir and Trawsfynydd as part of The Great Grid Upgrade.
The company submitted three applications to Gwynedd Council and one to Eryri National Park Authority in early December. All four applications have now been validated, meaning the local authorities have confirmed that the submissions are complete, include the necessary assessments, and meet the required standards before formal processing.
The upgrade project will help meet rising electricity demand, ease pressure on the existing network, and support Wales’ clean energy and energy security targets. It is expected to create jobs, boost the local economy, and provide a more secure electricity supply, enabling affordable, home-grown energy to reach homes and businesses.
John Lamb, Director for the Pentir to Trawsfynydd project, said: “Reinforcing and refurbishing this section of the network is vital to meet rising demand and deliver cleaner, local energy to homes and businesses. This project will help secure a low-carbon energy future for Wales while providing long-term benefits for bill payers.”
The four main elements of the project are:
- Installing new and replacement underground cables and equipment at Pentir substation
- Replacing 5.8 km of underground cables beneath the Glaslyn Estuary from Wern to Minffordd
- Building a new substation south of Bryncir
- Installing new and replacement underground cables and equipment at Trawsfynydd substation
Public engagement events were held in May, and a statutory pre-application consultation in September allowed the community to provide feedback, which helped refine the proposals. Decisions on the applications are expected early next year, with construction due to start in Summer 2026 and full operation scheduled for 2030.
Source: National Grid
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