The British grid utility National Grid Group has announced it will invest up to GBP35bn (€42.2bn) in the UK’s power transmission system between 2026 and 2031. National Grid’s RIIO-T3 plan for its National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) business include investments of more than GBP11bn (€13.3bn) towards maintaining and upgrading existing transmission networks, and construction works for three Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) projects in the UK. In addition, around GBP24bn (€28.9bn) will be allotted to pipeline investments, including around GBP15bn (€18.1bn) to increase network capacity.
The scheme notably plans to develop network reinforcement and expansion projects, including 17 ASTI projects and the upgrade of 3,500 km of existing overhead lines, in order to double the amount of power transferred around the UK. In addition, it plans for the connection of 35 GW of new power generation and storage, as well as the creation of a further 26 GW of future connection options.
Earlier in December 2024, the UK’s SSEN Transmission and Scottish Power also unveiled five-year investment plans for the country’s transmission grid under RIIO-T3, amounting to €26.7bn and €12.8bn respectively.