Teesside to Host UK's Largest Electricity Substation

Major Development in Teesside

National Grid Electricity Transmission has announced plans for the UK's largest electricity substation, located at Dorman Point in Teesside. This ambitious project is part of the Great Grid Upgrade programme and aims to support the burgeoning demand for energy, particularly from a nearby artificial intelligence data centre.

Project Overview

The substation, known as Teesside Node A, will cover approximately 29.5 hectares (73 acres) of land acquired from Teesworks, a public-private partnership. This site was specifically selected due to its proximity to significant infrastructure and its potential for future energy expansion. The substation is expected to operate at a voltage of 400kV and will initially provide over 1GW of power capacity, with the potential to reach up to 3.2GW for the wider site.

Capacity and Infrastructure

The Teesside Node A substation will contribute an additional 1.44GW of capacity, with the first 1,440 MVA expected to be operational by the end of 2029. This capacity has been contracted to Steel River Power, a joint venture that manages the private electricity network in the area. The substation will connect to the existing 400kV Lackenby–Norton overhead transmission line, ensuring efficient energy distribution.

Timeline and Next Steps

Planning applications for the project were submitted in September 2026, and an agreement to proceed was reached on 28 October 2026. Following this, remediation works are set to commence, lasting approximately six months. Community consultations are expected to close on November 11, allowing local stakeholders to provide input on the development.

Economic Impact

The project, valued at over £200 million, is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities during its construction phase and potentially in the operation of the data centre. Balfour Beatty has been contracted to deliver the substation, marking a significant milestone in the region's energy infrastructure.

Conclusion

As the UK continues to embrace digital transformation and AI technologies, the establishment of the Teesside Node A substation represents a critical step in meeting future energy demands. With its strategic location and substantial capacity, this project is poised to play a vital role in supporting the energy needs of Teesside and beyond.