Leicester Square’s multi-million-pound electricity upgrade almost complete
New state-of-the-art equipment being installed under London’s entertainment district will ensure safe and reliable power supplies for years to come
Engineers from UK Power Networks are working to finish a £16.2 million upgrade to an electricity substation hidden beneath the gardens and iconic ticket office at the London landmark of Leicester Square.
The third of three large transformers – devices which step down the power voltage so electricity can be safely delivered to local properties - recently arrived on site and is being installed to meet greater energy demand in the area.
The underground substation was opened by Her Majesty the Queen in 1991 and after regularly maintaining the infrastructure for three decades, UK Power Networks is replacing key equipment with cleaner, greener models so it’s fit to support the local economy for years to come.
The team has been working in consultation with stakeholders, local businesses, and community groups, to minimise disruption during the essential work.
Project manager Jason Gunning said: “We are committed to running safe and reliable power supplies across London and this work is essential to preserve the future resilience of local power supplies to help the area thrive.
“We started this project in November 2020 and used the unique opportunity during lockdown to press on with the work, and it’s been very important to us to engage in discussions with people who may have been impacted by our work, to agree the best working methods for this busy site. We will continue to work safely to encourage innovation, boost resilience and create a sustainable future.”
UK Power Networks delivers electricity to 2.3 million London properties including homes, businesses, schools and hospitals. With more than 10 million people due to be living in London by 2030, the firm is making sure the electricity network is ready for the future.
