National Grid’s London Power Tunnels (LPT2) project marks a significant milestone in the modernisation of the city's electrical infrastructure. Ellis Patents, a renowned UK-based cable cleat specialist, and Taihan Cable & Solution, a leading Korean cable manufacturer, are playing a pivotal role in this transformative initiative. Both companies have a successful track record of working together on numerous critical infrastructure projects worldwide.
London Power Tunnels Phase 1: A Collaborative Success
- Timeline and Investment: The first phase of the London Power Tunnels project began in February 2011 and concluded in 2018. This £1 billion program involved constructing 32 kilometres of tunnels stretching from Hackney in the east to Willesden in the west, and from Kensal Green to Wimbledon in the south, along with the addition of two new substations in North London.
- Cable Installation: Within these tunnels, 192 kilometres of 400kV cable and 30 kilometres of 132kV cable were installed. These cables were secured and protected against short circuits using Ellis Centaur Cable Cleats and Centaur Intermediate Straps.
- Community Involvement: The project was highly collaborative, involving local communities and schools, and now supplies 20% of London’s power.
Danny Macfarlane, Managing Director of Ellis Patents, reflects on the project: "Our involvement in LPT1 showcased the strength and reliability of our Centaur products. This was a highly prestigious project for us and every member of the Ellis team has been proud to have contributed to such an impactful project."
London Power Tunnels Phase 2 (LPT2): Extending the Legacy
- Project Scope: Initiated in Spring 2020 and expected to be fully operational by 2027, LPT2 involves constructing 32.5 kilometres of 3-meter diameter tunnels deep beneath the road network between Wimbledon and Crayford. These tunnels will carry high-voltage electricity cables to enhance the city's power supply infrastructure.
- Cable Installation: Taihan Cable & Solution is tasked with the design, delivery, connection construction, and testing of a 400kV cable system, once again utilizing Ellis Centaur Cable Cleats and Centaur Intermediate Straps to secure the cables.
Taihan Cable & Solution & Ellis: A Proven Partnership
- Previous Experience: Taihan Cable & Solution's extensive experience in installing cables in tunnels in Korea and Singapore, combined with their long-standing relationship with Ellis Patents, underscores the reliability and trust in Ellis' products. Their partnership on numerous critical infrastructure projects has consistently delivered outstanding results.
- Continued Trust: The successful use of Ellis' Centaur Cable Cleats and Centaur Intermediate Straps in LPT1 provided the added security and reliability needed to secure this prestigious contract for LPT2.
- Significant Achievement: Winning this contract in the UK holds particular significance for Taihan Cable & Solution, marking the largest project they have secured since entering the UK market.
Danny Macfarlane adds: "Our collaboration with Taihan Cable & Solution spans many years and projects. The proven performance of our products in LPT1 provided the confidence needed for the continuation into LPT2. We are excited to support Taihan Cable & Solution in delivering another successful phase."
Significance of the LPT2 Project
The LPT2 project is a cornerstone of London's efforts to upgrade its power infrastructure, aiming to replace ageing cables with state-of-the-art systems that will meet the city's growing energy demands. This initiative is crucial for:
- Reliability: Enhancing the reliability of the power supply to prevent outages and ensure consistent service to millions of residents and businesses.
- Capacity: Increasing the capacity of the power network to accommodate future growth and the integration of renewable energy sources.
- Sustainability: Supporting London's goals for sustainable development by reducing energy losses and improving the overall efficiency of the power system.
Looking Ahead
The continued collaboration between Taihan Cable & Solution and Ellis Patents on the LPT2 project highlights the synergy between innovative engineering and practical solutions. As the project progresses, both companies remain dedicated to delivering excellence, ensuring that London’s power infrastructure is robust, reliable, and prepared for future demands.
For more information on the London Power Tunnels 2 project, please visit National Grid’s LPT2 page.