National Grid has begun an upgrade of its Didcot substation in Oxfordshire to connect new data centres and 650MW of battery energy storage to the transmission network, while deploying SF6-free switchgear to cut emissions.
Situated beside the former Didcot A coal power station and around two miles from the Culham AI Growth Zone, the project is intended to boost grid capacity for the area’s expanding digital and energy infrastructure. Alongside planned data centre connections, the battery schemes are expected to bolster flexibility as demand for zero-carbon power rises.
The programme extends the existing 400kV outdoor air-insulated substation with three additional bays and three supergrid transformers. A new 132kV indoor gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) building will be constructed alongside to minimise land take and environmental impact.
The GIS hall will use Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ switchgear, a sulphur hexafluoride (SF6)-free alternative to the greenhouse gas widely used as an electrical insulator. National Grid says the deployment supports its commitment to reduce SF6 emissions from its network by 50% by 2030.
Linxon has been appointed principal contractor for the works, following collaboration with National Grid on projects including London Power Tunnels, which will host the UK’s first SF6-free GIS substation at Bengeworth Road. The Didcot scheme follows the start of construction at Uxbridge Moor substation in Buckinghamshire, which is due to connect more than a dozen data centres and will also use SF6-free switchgear.
Peter Hancock, Project Director at National Grid Electricity Transmission, noted, “Our Didcot substation extension marks another step forward in powering the UK’s digital future. By enabling new data centres and battery storage systems to connect to the grid, we’re supporting both the energy transition and the growth of the digital economy regionally and nationally.
“And with SF6-free technology at its heart, this project reflects our commitment to building a cleaner, greener electricity network for generations to come.””
Angel Guijarro, Managing Director of Linxon Europe, added, “Linxon’s appointment to this project is a testament to our strong partnership with National Grid and our shared vision for a sustainable energy future. We are committed to delivering a turnkey solution that will enhance the reliability and efficiency of Didcot substation, benefiting both local and national communities.”
