132kV Network Reconfiguration

132kV network reconfiguration to
accommodate wider systems works

July 2012

CONTENTS
1.
Executive Summary......................................................................................................................................4
2.
UK Power Networks Business Case ..............................................................................................................5

2.1
Existing network infrastructure.................................................................................................................5
2.2
Pelham & Wymondley Group Overall assessment ..................................................................................6
2.3
P2/6 compliance Transfer of Belchamp Grid to Bramford.......................................................................8
2.4
P2/6 compliance Thaxted & Belchamp Grid...........................................................................................9
3.
Review of Strategic Options .......................................................................................................................11

Option 1 - Do Nothing .........................................................................................................................................11
Option 2 - Replace 132kV circuits between Twinstead Tee and Burstall Bridge.....................................................11
Option 3 - Extension of the 132kV PCB overhead line from Twinstead ..................................................................13
Option 4 - 33kV Network Reinforcement ..............................................................................................................15
Option 5 - Reinforce Braintree GSP and install new 132kV circuits .......................................................................16
Option 6 - New Grid Supply Point at Twinstead ....................................................................................................19
Option 7 - New Grid Supply Point at Coggeshall...................................................................................................20
Option 8 - New Grid Supply Point at Earls Colne...................................................................................................22
4.
5.
Strategic Options evaluation .....................................................................................................................24

4.1
Recommended Option ...........................................................................................................................24
4.2
132kV Running Arrangement for Twinstead GSP .....................................................................................25

References.................................................................................................................................................25
APPENDIX A1:
Eastern Power Networks Distribution area .................................................................................26
APPENDIX A2:
Twinstead GSP proposed locations ........................................................................................27
APPENDIX A3:
Summary of strategic options....................................................................................................32
Page 2 of 35

Glossary of Terms
ACS
ACSR
Al
BR
CB
CI
CML
Cu
DG
DNO
DPCR
EHV
EPN
FCO
GSP
HV
kV
LV
MVA
MW
NAMP
NG
NOP
OF
OFGEM
OHL
PLE
POC
RDP
RIIO
RMS
SC
SCADA
SCO
SCP
SGT
SLD
St
UKPN
Average Cold Spell

Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced
Aluminum
British Rail
Circuit Breaker
Customer Interruptions
Customer Minutes Lost
Copper
Distributed Generation
Distribution Network Operator
Distribution Price Control Review
Extra High Voltage (132 kV)
Eastern Power Networks
First Circuit Outage
Grid Supply Point
High Voltage (>11 kV)
Kilo Volt: 1000 V
Low Voltage
Mega Volt Ampere
Mega Watt
Network Asset Management Plan
National Grid
Normally Open Point
Oil Filled
Office of Gas and Electricity Markets
Overhead Line
Planning Load Estimate
Point of Connection
Regional Development Plan
Revenue = Incentives + Innovation + Outputs
Root Mean Square
Single Core
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
Second Circuit Outage
Single Core Poly
Super Grid Transformer
Single Line Diagram
Steel
UK Power Networks
Page 3 of 35

1.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
National Grid has approached UK Power Networks to request that the 132kV dual circuit overhead line between
Twinstead Tee and Burstall Bridge be transferred to National Grid ownership to be dismantled and replaced by a
400kV overhead line.
This document provides information to demonstrate what is necessary to allow UK Power Networks to continue to
provide a safe and reliable electricity supply to homes and businesses in the area following the transfer of the 132kV
dual circuit overhead line along with technical, environmental and economical comparison of alternative
reconfigurations or reinforcement options. In addition it details the recommended proposal to construct a new
400/132kV Substation to the West of Twinstead, Essex.
The existing 132kV double circuit currently runs open, with the HV bows broken at tower PCB16 in an area known as
Burstall Bridge, approximately 3km from Bramford substation. The removal of the 132kV circuits to Bramford will
result in an increased risk to the supply of existing customers and UK Power Networks not complying with the
distribution networks planning standard P2/6, a requirement by Ofgem for a licence to operate an electricity
distribution network. This planning standard requires there to be back up capacity so that if a circuit faults or needs
to be closed down for maintenance a second circuit can provide sufficient power based on normal summer usage.
The removal of the existing line results in insufficient 33kV transfer capacity to cater for a summer second circuit
outage (N-2) of the 132kV overhead line between Pelham and Thaxted Grid. It is also expected that Belchamp Grid
will be transferred to Bramford GSP on a permanent basis to maintain P2/6 compliance as the 132kV circuit from
Belchamp Tee to Bramford already provides the required transfer capability
Each potential option has been assessed to ensure that it meets the need case to provide an alternative supply to
the existing 132kV circuits, that the resultant distribution system is compliant with the various statutory and licence
obligations and does not leave UK Power Networks customers at a greater risk.
It has been confirmed that a new Grid Supply Point (GSP), a substation where UK Power Networks takes energy from
National Grid at 400kV and steps it down to 132kV for distribution locally, in the vicinity of Twinstead is the
appropriate distribution network reinforcement that should be considered in the context of transferring the existing
132kV overhead line between Twinstead Tee and Burstall Bridge. It has been determined that a 400/132kV Super
Grid Transformer (SGT) connected to a single section 132kV busbar via a SGT LV circuit breaker with two 132kV
feeder circuit breakers to the existing 132kV OHL is the preferred initial configuration for Twinstead GSP, to be
designed to accommodate future expansion as the DNO network evolves. It is proposed to run the new GSP in
parallel to Pelham with the bus coupler open at Pelham Grid Supply Point.
Page 4 of 35

2.
UK POWER NETWORKS BUSINESS CASE
UK Power Networks (EDF Energy Networks at the time) were requested to undertake an investigation into whether the
ownership of the 132kV double circuit overhead line could be transferred to National Grid. An initial report was
produced by UK Power Networks in 2009 which identified several viable solutions and served as the basis for route
feasibility studies.
Initial results recommended the transfer of Belchamp and Thaxted Grid to the new GSP, equipped with a 132kV
double busbar and supplied by two 400/132kV 240MVA Super Grid Transformers (SGT). This configuration is
reviewed as part of this document in light of further information regarding planned modifications to the 400kV
network and the impact of a revised 132kV running arrangement on the distribution network.
The UKPN business case supersedes the previous reports and is built around the following structure:
Section 2
Brief explanation of the 132kV and 33kV network for the Pelham/Wymondley GSP group;
Reasoning behind reinforcement projects currently in the NAMP plan;
Compliance issues arising from the transfer and removal of the 132kV circuits between
Twinstead Tee and Burstall Bridge;
Section 3
Review of strategic options;
Section 4
Evaluation of the strategic options;
Recommended option for a new 400/132kV GSP near Twinstead;
Technical assessment of the different configurations and running arrangements for Twinstead;
2.1
Existing network infrastructure
770/843 A
176/193 MVA
Due to the predominantly rural nature of this area of North Essex, especially in the vicinity of Twinstead and Castle
Hedingham, the distribution network is predominantly radial with long lengths of 11kV overhead line supplied from
small/medium size primary substations with firm capacity below 24MVA such as Cornard, Halstead and Wethersfield
primaries and larger load centres in the towns of Sudbury, Haverhill and Saffron Walden. These primaries are fed
from three different Grid substations of Braintree, Belchamp and Thaxted and are part of two different GSP groups of
Pelham - Wymondley and Braintree.
<PCB211>
<PCB273>
<PCB323>
<P
CB
5
>
Figure 1. Pelham & Wymondley - Existing network (Conceptual schematic)
Braintree GSP is equipped with 2x240MVA 400/132kV SGT and is interconnected with Rayleigh GSP via a double
circuit 132kV overhead line fitted with 175mm2 ACSR conductors (PSB-PSA) with a 2.2km section of 500mm2 OF Cu
cable and supplies Braintree local (2x90MVA), Chelmsford North (2x30/30MVA), Chelmsford East no2 (1x90MVA)
and BR Springfield (1 x 14MVA) rail load. Braintree forms a P2/6 Class D with an average cold spell (ACS) maximum
Page 5 of 35

winter corrected demand in of 168.8MW in winter 2010/11. According to the Planning Load Estimates (PLE) the
demand is expected to reach 190.7MW in 2021/22.
Pelham GSP is equipped with 2x240MVA 400/132kV SGT and supplies Bishops Stortford Grid (2x90MVA) via an
underground circuit directly off the 132kV bars and Rail supply (1 x 14MVA), Thaxted Grid (2x90MVA) and Belchamp
Grid (4 x 45MVA) from a 132kV double circuit overhead line to the east (SMA1-7 and PCB234-PCB118). Pelham GSP
is interconnected with Wymondley GSP to the west by approximately 26km of double circuit 132kV overhead line
fitted with 175mm2 ACSR conductors (PCB), circuit no1 tee off to Melbourn Grid (1x45MVA) at tower PCB273 and
circuits no1+2 tee off to Stevenage Grid (2x90MVA ).
Wymondley GSP is equipped with 2x240MVA 400/132kV SGT and supplies Wymondley Grid (2x90MVA) and
Letchworth Grid (2x90MVA).
PCB double circuit 132kV overhead line extends to the east from Pelham to Bramford, teeing off to Cliff Quay Grid
and Lawford 132kV switching station. This 132kV circuit is made up of two types of OHL conductors. A 17.5km of
400mm2, rated at 745/925A, runs between Pelham and Thaxted (to a pair of circuit breakers) and feeding Thaxted
Grid and the rail track supply point. The 34.3km section from Thaxted is made up of 175mm2 and is connected to two
Bramford circuits at tower PCB5:
1. Circuit number 1 (PCB No1) is connected to the 300mm2 Cliff Quay 4 OHL;
2. Circuit number 2 (PCB No2) is connected to the 300mm2 Lawford 4 OHL;
Currently this section of the circuit runs open, with the HV bows broken at tower PCB16 in an area known as Burstall
Bridge, approximately 3km from Bramford substation. This configuration can be altered as part of outage planning
scenarios when required. The 132kV route crosses the NG 400kV circuits of Bramford-Rayleigh and Pelham-Rayleigh
near the village of Twinstead. The existing 132kV double circuit provides up to 198/246MVA of transfer capacity
(summer/winter on a double 132kV circuit) between Pelham-Wymondley Group and Bramford, sufficient to provide a
firm supply to Thaxted and Belchamp Grid substations.
2.2
Pelham & Wymondley Group Overall assessment
Overall Pelham - Wymondley network comprises seven 132/33kV Grid substations with associated 33/11kV primary
substations and a 132/25kV Grid substation which form a P2/6 Class E supply group with an average cold spell
(ACS) maximum winter corrected demand of 492.6MW in winter 2010/11. According to the 2011 Planning Load
Estimates (PLE) the demand is expected to reach 591MW in 2021/22 (figure 2).
MW
Pelham and Wymondley
700.0
600.0
500.0
400.0
300.0
200.0
100.0
Actual
0.0
05/06
07/08
Predicted
09/10
11/12
13/14
15/16
17/18
19/20
21/22
23/24
25/26 Year
Figure 2. Pelham & Wymondley - Winter Maximum Demand (Actual and Predicted)
Page 6 of 35

The minimum demand to be met in this group under outage conditions is detailed in the P2/6 table below
Circuit outage
Minimum demand to be met for a class E (between 300MW and 1500MW)
First circuit outage
Immediately: Group demand

492.6MW
Second circuit outage
Immediately: All consumers at 2/3 Group Demand

328.4MW
Within time to restore arranged outage: Group Demand
492.6MW
The existing network is in compliance with P2/6 security of supply. The 132kV circuits between Pelham and Bramford
run normally open at the tower PCB16 and this configuration can be altered by making the HV bows on the tower as
part of pre outage planning scenarios to guarantee supply to the group while works on other 132kV sections are
taking place, a situation that will occur more frequently as the load in the system increases.
A P2/6 assessment of the existing running arrangement has been carried out for various winter First Circuit Outage
(FCO) and summer Second Circuit Outage (SCO) taking into account the predicted loads up to 2020 as per the table
below.
P2/6 Scenario
Exit Point
Fault scenario
First Circuit Outage (FCO)
Pelham 132kV
SGT1 or SGT 2 out
Winter maximum demand
Wymondley 132kV
SGT1 or SGT 2 out
Pelham Wymondley 132kV circuit
Circuit number 1 fault

Pelham Thaxted 132kV circuit

Second Circuit Outage (SCO)
Pelham 132kV
SGT1 on outage and SGT 2 on fault
Summer maximum demand
Wymondley 132kV
SGT1 on outage and SGT 2 on fault
Pelham Wymondley 132kV circuit
Loss of circuit no.1 and no.2
Pelham Thaxted 132kV circuit
Loss of circuit no.1 and no.2
A summary of the findings is available in the table below:

Study Result
Fault level assessment
Base Case - Existing network
No significant issues arise for both 3 phase and earth fault studies.
Solid running arrangement

at Pelham
Stevenage Grid 3 phase peak make is within 90% of the switchgear

rating.
3 phase and earth fault at

Pelham 132kV above
switchgear rating for both peak
make and RMS break.
Load flow Normal

running
No issues of note
No issues of note
P2/6 assessment
The loss of Pelham SGT1 results in 851A (97% rating) flowing between
Pelham and Wymondley 132kV ;
Study not carried out due to

fault level constraints
Page 7 of 35

FCO Winter 2017/18
The loss of Wymondley SGT results in a 105% load on the remaining

SGT, but still within the cyclic rating;
The loss of Pelham - Thaxted 132kV circuit result in 843A (91% rating)
for the remaining circuit. This value is expected to increase to 921A in
winter 2021/22 thus requiring the transfer of Belchamp Grid to
Bramford GSP (figure 4).
P2/6 assessment
SCO Summer 2016
The loss of a Pelham SGT coincident with an outage on the remaining

Study not carried out due to
SGT results in the overload of the 132kV circuit between Stevenage Tee fault level constraints
and Melbourn Tee and the overload of the 132kV circuit between
Stevenage Tee and Pelham (figure 3)
The loss of a Wymondley SGT coincident with an outage on the
remaining SGT results in the overload of the 132kV PCB OHL between
Pelham and Melbourn
LETCHWORTH
132/33kV S/S
MELBOURNE
BELCHAMP
132/33kV S/S
WYMONDLEY
GRID
THAXTED
799/875 A
181/199 MVA
132/33kV S/S
WYMONDLEY GSP
751 A
517 A
679 A
400/132kV S/S
2x240MVA SGT
132/33kV S/S
132/33kV S/S
354 A
NO.1
PELHAM GSP
NO.1
447 A
NO.2
400/132kV S/S
2x240MVA SGT
NO.2
433/539 A
99/123 MVA
112 A
STEVENAGE
153 A
290 A
156 A
745/925 A
172/211 MVA
123 A
BISHOPS
STORTFORD
132/33kV S/S
269 A
433/539 A
99/123 MVA
HV Bows Off
25kV
BR UGLEY
132/33kV S/S
Figure 3. P2/6 assessment for SCO in Summer 2016
2.3
P2/6 compliance Transfer of Belchamp Grid to Bramford
The combined demand of Thaxted and Belchamp is expected to increase due to new developments, in particular due
to connection activity and developments at Haverhill and Sudbury, supplied from Belchamp Grid. The 400mm2
section of the PCB circuit between Pelham and Thaxted is rated at 211MVA and the 2010 combined demand reached
163MVA in winter 2010/11. According to the estimates, the demand will reach the circuit capacity in 2021/22.
LETCHWORTH
132/33kV S/S
MELBOURNE
BELCHAMP
132/33kV S/S
WYMONDLEY
GRID
THAXTED
799/875 A
181/199 MVA
132/33kV S/S
WYMONDLEY GSP
400/132kV S/S
2x240MVA SGT
265 A
227 A
NO.1
PELHAM GSP
NO.1
540 A
337 A
NO.2
400/132kV S/S
2x240MVA SGT
NO.2
433/539 A
99/123 MVA
STEVENAGE
132/33kV S/S
132/33kV S/S
132/33kV S/S
112 A
921 A
465 A
745/925 A
172/211 MVA
123 A
BISHOPS
STORTFORD
132/33kV S/S
433/539 A
99/123 MVA
HV Bows Off
25kV
BR UGLEY
Figure 4. N-1 scenario for winter 2021/22 demand (estimate)
Page 8 of 35

It is expected that Belchamp Grid will be transferred to Bramford GSP on a permanent basis to maintain P2/6
compliance and the 132kV circuit from Belchamp Tee to Bramford already provides the required transfer capability.
P2/6 studies of the Wymondley/Pelham group for an estimated winter maximum demand in 2017/18 show that the
loss of one SGT at Wymondley results in an increase in demand from the remaining unit to 255MVA, above the
continuous rating of the SGT but still within the 6h cyclic rating of 275MVA. According to the estimates this value will
be reached in 2023/24. If the option of transferring the Belchamp load to Bramford is removed (along with the
Twinstead to Bramford 132kV OHL) additional Supergrid Transformer capacity will be required in the Wymondley
Pelham Group.
2.4
P2/6 compliance Thaxted & Belchamp Grid
The combined winter demand of Thaxted and Belchamp is classed as group D under ENA recommendation P2/6
security of supply, with a peak demand of 163MW as seen on the 132kV circuits from Pelham GSP in 2010 (20th
December). At present there is no generation connected at 33/132kV in the area to be taken into account and there
is limited interconnection to Thaxted and Belchamp Group to support the load in the event of summer N-2 scenario
for the loss of the 132kV circuits between Pelham GSP and Thaxted. The minimum demand to be met in this group
under outage conditions is detailed in the P2/6 table below:
Circuit outage
Minimum demand to be met for a class D (between 60MW and 300MW)
First circuit outage
Immediately: Group demand minus up to 20MW (automatically disconnected)

143MW (winter demand 20MW)
Within 3 hours: Group Demand
163MW
Second circuit outage
Within 3 hours: Smaller of Group demand minus 100MW or 1/3 Group demand
54.3MW (1/3 of Winter demand)
Within time to restore arranged outage: Group Demand
Network modelling results are shown below, for a N-2 scenario for the 132kV circuits between Pelham and Thaxted
with a combined demand of 103.7MVA equivalent to 2011 summer maximum demand. This scenario results in the
loss of Thaxted, Belchamp and a rail supply incoming circuits and enabling the backfeed by series of remote/manual
switching on the 33kV network to supply the affected areas from Bury, Braintree and Stowmarket Grid substations.
Belchamp Grid
A total of 22.5MVA demand can be permanently supported for a N-2 on the 132kV circuits from
Pelham to Thaxted Grid via switching of the normal open points, excluding the demand from
Groton T2 and Boxted T1 which is normally supplied from Bury Grid and Stowmarket Grid:
16.5MVA support available from Bury Grid on the Boxted T2 single circuit by remote control
of 33kV circuit breakers and manual switching of the 33kV isolators. Circuit total length via
Boxted Primary is 23km and via Drinkstone tee is 42km.
6MVA support available from Stowmarket Grid on the Hadleigh T1 / Groton T1 single circuit
by manual switching of 33kV disconnector. 33kV total circuit length via Groton Primary is
24km.
A total of 38.4MVA demand can be temporarily supported via rota shed. This includes the town
of Haverhill and Sudbury.
Page 9 of 35

Thaxted Grid
A total of 30MVA demand can be permanently supported for a N-2 of the 132kV circuits from
Pelham to Thaxted Grid:
14.2MVA support available from Braintree Grid on the Halstead tee/Wethersfield dual circuit
by manual switching of 33kV isolators. 33kV total circuit length via Wethersfield Primary is
26km.
15.8VA support available from Braintree Grid on the West Braintree / Dunmow Primary dual
circuit by manual switching of 33kV. 33kV total circuit length via Dunmow tee is 26.5km.
A total of 12.7MVA demand can be supported temporarily via rota shed for Saffron Walden and
Acrows primaries.
In summary, a total of 52.5MVA demand can be permanently supported following a series of manual and remote
switching. This equates to approximately 48.5MW which is below the requirements of P2/6 of 54.3MW. The removal
of the 132kV circuits to Bramford will result in insufficient 33kV transfer capacity to cater for a summer second circuit
outage (N-2) of the SMA/PCB overhead line between Pelham and Thaxted Grid and P2/6 non compliance of the
Thaxted and Belchamp group.
In addition, UKPN cannot guarantee that the required Grid substations and all seven 33kV circuits mentioned above
will be available to support the required demand and that the voltage on the 11kV feeders, emanating from the
substations supplied via rota shed, will be within limits.
The figure below illustrates the areas normally supplied from Belchamp and Thaxted Grid and the effect of a 132kV
N-2 scenario in terms of areas that can be permanently supplied or areas under rota shed (4h supply rota to
individual primary substations). This result in the loss of the rail supply and approximately 35,180 customers
supplied via rota shed and a substantial impact in the towns of Haverhill, Sudbury and Saffron Walden with a
combined population above 50,000.
Areas supplied via rota shed (4h)

Areas supplied via 33kV backfeed
from other Grid substations
WRATTING
HAVERHIL
ACROWS
SAFFRON WALDEN
WIXDE
PUMPING
SUDBURY
132kV N-2
Figure 5. Effect of a 132kV N-2 scenario in Belchamp and Thaxted areas

(Simplified to show the affected area)
Page 10 of 35

3.
REVIEW OF STRATEGIC OPTIONS
UK Power Networks investigated several options that could resolve the predicted compliance issues. The range of
options considered at the initial investigation stage included the creation of a new Grid Supply Point as well as the
extension of the 132kV network infrastructure and will be the subject of a revaluation as part of this briefing paper. A
summary of the following options is available in Appendix A3:
Reference
Option
Option 1
Do Nothing
Option 2
Replace 132kV circuits between Twinstead and Burstall Bridge
Option 3
Extension of the 132kV PCB overhead line from Twinstead

3.1.1
3.1.1
3.2.1
3.2.2
Option 4
Option 5
Twinstead Lawford 132kV substation (New 132kV OHL circuits)

Twinstead Lawford 132kV substation (New 132KV UG circuits)
Twinstead Abberton Grid (New 132kV OHL circuits)
Twinstead Abberton Grid (New 132KV UG circuits)
33kV Network Reinforcement

4.1
Resolve 33kV circuit constraints
4.2
Increase 33kV interconnection
Reinforce Braintree GSP and install new 132kV circuits to Rushley Green
5.1.1
5.1.2
5.2.1
5.2.1
132kV Braintree Rushley Green (New 132kV OHL circuits)

132kV Braintree Rushley Green (New 132KV UG circuits)
132kV Braintree Abberton teed off to Twinstead (New 132kV OHL circuits)
132kV Braintree Abberton teed off to Twinstead (New 132KV UG circuits)
Option 6
New Grid Supply Point at Twinstead
Option 7
New Grid Supply Point at Coggeshall

7.1
7.2
Option 8
New Grid Supply Point at Coggeshall (New 132kV OHL circuits)

New Grid Supply Point at Coggeshall (New 132KV UG circuits)
New Grid Supply Point at Earls Colne

8.1
8.1
New Grid Supply Point at Earls Colne (New 132kV OHL circuits)
New Grid Supply Point at Earls Colne (New 132KV UG circuits)
Option 1 - Do Nothing
This option covers UK Power Networks transfer of the 132kV circuits between Twinstead and Burstall Bridge without
appropriate distribution network reinforcement in place. The existing 132kV double circuit provides up to
198/246MVA of transfer capacity (summer/winter on a double 132kV circuit) between Pelham-Wymondley Group
and Bramford, sufficient to provide a firm supply to Thaxted and Belchamp Grid substations and maintain both Grid
substations supplied during 132kV outage scenarios.
This option has been rejected because it would be in breach UKPNs distribution licence condition in terms of
security of supply as it results in P2/6 non compliance of the class D group. The current infrastructure is unable to
permanently support the demand at Belchamp and Thaxted Grids without the backup offered by the 132kV circuits to
Bramford and would increase the risk of loss of supply to the existing customers.
Option 2 - Replace 132kV circuits between Twinstead Tee and Burstall Bridge
Option 2 would maintain the existing N-1 transfer capacity between Pelham and Bramford by the replacement of an
existing 26km of 132kV double circuit overhead line with two 132kV underground circuits to PCB5 near Bramford
GSP.
Page 11 of 35

As a minimum, this connection would be of similar length to the existing overhead line if completed along the same
26km route, the majority of which is in the Dedham Vale area of outstanding natural beauty and within the wider area
of the Stour Valley.
This option involves:
a. Installation of two 132kV circuits, made up of single core cables with a minimum size of 300mm Al, each
capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation, along a 26km route, partial in carriage way ;
b. 6 directional drill;
c. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and modifications to existing 132kV towers east of Belchamp Tee;
d. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near Bramford;
Summary of Option 2
Route length 26km (minimum);
Capacity available through connection: 214/252MVA;
Environmental and ecological issues:
o Within the Stour Valley area.
o Dedham Vale area of outstanding natural beauty;
o Close proximity to ancient woodlands;
o Identified archaeological areas;
Special Engineering Difficulties
o River crossings: Stour, Brett and Belstead;
o Major roads: A131, A134, A1071;
o Network Rail: Sudbury to Marks Tey rural line;
Requires route feasibility study.
This option allows for the transfer of Belchamp Grid to Bramford GSP and the consequential upstream
reinforcement at Bramford GSP and the Bramford to Lawford 132kV OHL circuit as per the current
infrastructure development plan. Current estimate cost of reinforcement works at Bramford is 12.8m for
reinforcing the 132kV circuit from Lawford to Bramford and 45m for 132kV switchgear replacement due to
fault level.
Estimate cost 45.3m
Estimate total cost including reinforcement works at Bramford is 103m
Estimate time to implement 5-6 years (2 years consents negotiations, 3-4 years approval + construction)
Figure 6. Simplified single line diagram for Option 2
This option has been discounted due to the high cost, environmental impact, complex wayleave negotiations and
long timescale.
Page 12 of 35

Option 3 - Extension of the 132kV PCB overhead line from Twinstead
Option 3 would maintain the existing N-1 transfer capacity between Pelham and Bramford by the replacement of the
existing 24km of 132kV double circuit overhead line with two 132kV circuits to Lawford or Abberton Grid.
The connection to Lawford 132kV will ultimately increase the demand at Bramford by approximate 100MVA and
above the current firm capacity of 829MW therefore the planned capacity increase by National Grid at Bramford for a
5th SGT will be required before Belchamp grid can be transferred.
Option 3.1
Twinstead Lawford 132kV substation
To fully implement option 3.1, new 132kV circuits are required between Twinstead and Lawford 132kV. This option
involves:
a.
Installation of two 132kV circuits along a 24km route.

Option 3.1.1 is for an overhead line route with 175mm2 conductors each capable of 99/123MVA;
Option 3.1.2 is for an underground route with single core cables with a minimum size of 300mm Al,
each capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation, 30% in carriage way;
b. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and modifications to existing 132kV towers east of Belchamp Tee;
c. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near Bramford;
Summary of Option 3.1.1 and 3.1.2

Route length 24km (minimum). Route initially assessed;
Capacity available through connection: 198/246MVA (OHL) or 214/252MVA (UG);
Wayleave consents are required;
o Close proximity to Dedham Vale area of outstanding natural beauty;
o Close proximity to Ancient woodland areas and identified archaeological areas;
o River crossings: Colne;
o Network rail: Norwich London Liverpool street main line and Sudbury Marks Tey rural line.
This option allows for the transfer of Belchamp Grid to Bramford GSP and the consequential upstream
reinforcement at Bramford GSP and the Bramford to Lawford 132kV OHL circuit as per the current
infrastructure development plan. Current estimate cost of reinforcement works at Bramford is 12.8m for
reinforcing the 132kV circuit from Lawford to Bramford and 45m for 132kV switchgear replacement due to
fault level.
Option 3.1.1 132kV Overhead line
Estimate cost 22.6m
Estimate total cost including reinforcement works at Bramford is 80.5m
Estimate time to implement 6-7 years (2-3 years consents negotiations, 3-4 years approval + construction)
Option 3.1.2 132kV Underground cable
Estimate cost 40.1m
Page 13 of 35

Figure 7. Simplified single line diagram for Option 3.1
Option 3.2
Twinstead Abberton Grid
To fully implement option 3.2, new 132kV circuits are required between Twinstead and Abberton 132kV. This option
involves:
a. Installation of two 132kV circuits along a 22km route.
Option 3.2.1 is for an overhead line route with 175mm2 conductors each capable of 99/123MVA;
each capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation, 20% in carriage way;
b. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and modifications to existing 132kV towers east of Belchamp Tee;
c. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near Bramford;
Summary of Option 3.1.1 and 3.1.2
Route length 22km (minimum). Route initially assessed.
o Close proximity to the Dedham vale area of outstanding natural beauty;
o Close proximity to Ancient woodland areas and identified archaeological areas;
o Crossing of the Bramford Rayleigh Pelham 400kV circuit;
o River crossings: Colne and Roman;
o Major roads: A12, A1124 A120, A1071;
o Network rail: London Liverpool street main line and Sudbury Marks Tey rural line.
A detailed assessment is required to identify reinforcement of the 132kV circuits and increased SGT capacity
on the Bramford/Rayleigh group depending on the location of the 132kV injection at Colchester.
Estimate cost of reinforcement works at Bramford is 12.8m for reinforcing the 132kV circuit from Lawford to
Bramford and 45m for 132kV switchgear replacement due to fault level.
Estimate costs for reinforcement of the 132kV circuits to Rayleigh is 50m.
Option 3.2.1 132kV Overhead line, Estimate cost 21.3m
Estimate total cost including 132kV reinforcement works towards Rayleigh is 75m
Option 3.2.2 132kV Underground cable, Estimate cost 38.5m
Page 14 of 35

Estimate total cost including 132kV reinforcement works towards Rayleigh is 92.5m
Figure 8. Simplified single line diagram for Option 3.2
Option 4 - 33kV Network Reinforcement

The loss of the 132kV circuits to Bramford GSP results in a P2/6 non compliance due to insufficient backup available
from the 33kV network to support the demand of Belchamp and Thaxted Grid. A total of 50.6MVA demand can be
permanently supported following a series of manual and remote switching, equating to approximately 48.5MW of
demand as detailed in section 4.4.
The distribution network in the area is limited in its extent and the backup is restricted by voltage drop on the 33kV
network and the thermal rating of three overhead circuits which originate from Bury and Stowmarket Grids, a
distance of approximately 23km and 24km respectively.
From Bury Grid:
33kV OHL Bury Grid Tee to Boxted (pole 1-8): 0.2Cu rated at 425/530A (summer/winter);
33kV OHL Bury Grid to Boxted (pole 8-145): 0.2Cu rated at 425/530A;
33kV OHL Boxted to Belchamp Grid (pole 146-224): 0.2Cu rated at 425/530A;
33kV OHL Bury Grid to Hadleigh (pole 24S-29): 0.1Cu rated at 269/336A;
33kV OHL Bury Grid/Hadleigh to Groton/Cornard Tee (pole1-116): 0.15Cu rated at 382/476A;
33kV OHL Groton to Cornard (pole 99-116): 0.2Cu rated at 425/530A;
From Stowmarket Grid:
33kV OHL Stowmarket to Hadleigh (pole 1-115, pole 116-130 and pole 131-165): 0.1Cu rated at 269/336A;
From Braintree Grid:
33kV OHL Braintree Grid to West Braintree (pole 106-149): 0.1Cu rated at 269/336A;
Page 15 of 35

33kV circuit restrictions
132kV N-2
Figure 9. 33kV circuit restrictions
Option 4.1
Resolve 33kV circuit constraints
The 33kV network is restricted by the long length and small section of overhead line to Grid sources that form part of
different supply groups. An option to resolve the 33kV constraints would be to replace the existing small conductors
with larger ones, capable of providing extra capacity and with lower impedance that would result in increased voltage
support. This option would involve installing remote switching in the network and replacing the limiting overhead
line circuits.
Estimate total cost of reinforcement at 33kV is 9.4m. Studies suggest that completing the above works would
resolve the circuit overloads and provide 7MVA of additional capacity, capable of supporting the demand increase
up to 2017 but would result in 11kV voltage outside of statutory limits at Haverhill (10.3kV) and Cornard (10.17kV).
This option has been discounted due to technical constraints in particular 300mm2 construction or upgrade, voltage
limitations, inability to permanently supply Haverhill, Sudbury and Saffron Walden for a N-2 on the 132kV OHL and is
seen as a loss of capacity when compared to the capacity provided by the existing 132kV circuits.
Option 4.2
Increase 33kV interconnection
33kV interconnection from Belchamp and Thaxted can be enhanced by constructing new 33kV interconnectors. There
are several projects within UKPN investment plan to provide additional circuits and improve the resilience of the
network within the area and enhance 33kV interconnection.
Estimate total cost of reinforcement at 33kV is 20m. Like option 4.1, the increase in interconnection would resolve
the immediate issues but wont provide sufficient capacity to cater for the developments expected in the area.
This option has been discounted due to technical constraints (voltage limitations), inability to permanently supply
Haverhill, Sudbury and Saffron Walden for a N-2 on the 132kV OHL and limited capacity increase.
Option 5 - Reinforce Braintree GSP and install new 132kV circuits

Option 5 would maintain the existing N-1 transfer capacity between Pelham and Bramford by the replacement of the
existing 26km of 132kV double circuit overhead line with two 132kV circuits to Braintree GSP.
Page 16 of 35

To provide capacity and enable the permanent transfer of Belchamp Grid, to resolve the predicted P2/6 noncompliance, a 3rd 400/132kV Super Grid Transformer (SGT) is required at Braintree. Currently the winter maximum
demand is 168.8MW and the addition of Belchamp Grid will increase this value to 250MW, above the nominal rating
of an SGT. As a class D group the requirement under an FCO is to maintain the total demand minus 20MW which is
still above a single SGT rating.
Common works for option 5:
a. Modifications to the 400kV arrangement at Braintree by National Grid;
b. Installation of a 3rd 400/132kV SGT by National Grid;
c. Installation of two 132kV circuit breakers and associated equipment;
Estimate cost for substation reinforcement works 32m
Estimate time to implement 4 years (1 year approvals, 1 year enabling works, 2 year construction)
Option 5.1
New 132kV dual circuits between Braintree and the 132kV PCB OHL
To fully implement option 5.1, new 132kV circuits are required between Braintree GSP and the PCB overhead line. A
desktop route feasibility study was done in 2010 in response to National Grid East Anglia generation connection
enquires which indentified several overhead line routes. This option involves:
a.
Installation of two 132kV circuits between Braintree and the 132kV PCB OHL:
Option 5.1.1 is for a overhead line with 175mm2 conductors each capable of 99/123MVA along a 18km
route;
each capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation along a 17km route, 50% in carriage way;
b. For the underground solution: 5 directional drills;
Summary of Option 5.1

Route length: OHL 18km or UG (17km) minimum. OHL route initially;
o Close proximity to Ancient woodland areas;
o River crossings: Blackwater and Colne;
Reinforcement at Braintree has been identified following the connection to the 132kV PCB circuit.
Estimate cost 17.0m
Estimate total cost including reinforcement works at Braintree is 49m
Estimate cost 30.4m
Estimate total cost including reinforcement works at Braintree is 62.4m
Page 17 of 35

Figure 10. Simplified single line diagram for Option 5.1 and 5.2
This option has been discounted due to the high cost, high risk factor (archaeological and environmental), complex
wayleave negotiations and long timescale.
Option 5.2
New 132kV circuits between the Braintree-Abberton circuit and Twinstead
To fully implement option 5.2, new 132kV overhead line circuits are required between Coggeshall and the PCB
circuits. A desktop route feasibility study was done in 2010 in response to National Grid East Anglia generation
connection enquires which indentified several overhead line routes. This option involves:
a.
Installation of two 132kV circuits between Coggeshall and Rushley Green:

Option 5.2.1 is for a overhead line with 175mm2 conductors each capable of 99/123MVA on a 17.5km
route;
each capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation along an 18km route, 40% in carriage way;
b. For the underground solution: 5 directional drills;
Summary of Option 5.2

Route length 17.5km (minimum). OHL route initially assessed, underground route is largely unexplored;
Reinforcement at Braintree has been identified.
Estimate cost 16.5m
Estimate total cost including reinforcement works at Braintree is 46.5m
Page 18 of 35

Estimate cost 31.0m
Estimate total cost including reinforcement works at Braintree is 63m
Braintree GSP
Coggeshall Grid
New
Figure 11. Simplified single line diagram for Option 5.1 and 5.2 (132kV connections shown)
This option has been discounted due high risk factor (archaeological and environmental), complex wayleave
negotiations, long timescale and public awareness of new 132kV overhead lines.
Option 6 - New Grid Supply Point at Twinstead

Option 6 proposes the creation of a new Grid Supply Point near Twinstead, adjacent to the 400kV circuits BramfordPelham and in close proximity with the Thaxted to Bramford 132kV circuits. To fully implement this option, a short
length of 132kV cables is required to pick up the 132kV. This option involves:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Creation of a 400/132kV Grid Supply Point;

Installation of 400/132kV SGT by National Grid. Further information on 6.1;
Installation of 132kV switchgear. Further information on 6.1;
Installation of two 132kV underground circuits between the substation and the 132kV circuits;
Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and modifications to existing 132kV towers east of Belchamp Tee;
Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near Bramford;
Summary of Option 6
132kV Route length between 200m and 1.5km, dependant on the site location;
Capacity available through connection: 198/246MVA (restricted by the existing 132kV OHL circuit);
Wayleave consents are required for site 3;
o No major engineering difficulties indentified.
This option has been previously discussed with National Grid who appointed TEP to undertake an environmental and
planning assessment of the feasibility of sitting a new Grid Supply Point between Twinstead Tee and Thaxted. Out of
a total of 9 potential sites, the study identified 3 sites to further investigate.
Page 19 of 35

Twinstead GSP
3
Figure 12. Simplified single line diagram for Option 6 including the 3 identified sites
GSP Site 1 Butlers Wood and Waldegrave Wood: The 400kV overhead line runs between the two woodlands and
there is insufficient space for the GSP beneath the line but potential sites have been identified in the immediate
vicinity of the overhead line and directly accessible from the A131. The dense woodland at Butlers and Waldegrave
Wood offers screening potential. This site is the furthest away from the 132kV overhead line, approximately 1.5km.
GSP Site 2 Delvyns Lane: This site is adjacent to Ramacre Wood approximately 1.5km to the north east of Castle
Hedingham and is a field currently used for pasture. The site is sufficiently sized to accommodate the footprint of the
GSP. The existing 400kV overhead line passes to the north of Ramacre Wood and the 132kV overhead line crosses
the south west corner of the site.
GSP Site 3 Colne Valley Farm Park: A site adjacent to the A1017 on the fringes of urban development at Castle
Hedingham and adjacent to the existing overhead line to the north of Colne Valley Farm Park, a tourist attraction
featuring rare breeds and including a woodland picnic area and a walk along the River Colne. A flood risk zone
associated with the river covers part of the site. Both the 400kV and the 132kV OHL are located in the vicinity.
Estimate cost for UK Power Networks elements:
Site 1:
3.6m (2x1000mm2 Al 132kV underground circuits, 1500m in length)
Site 2/3: 2.3m (2x1000mm2 Al 132kV underground circuits, 200m in length)
Estimate time to implement 3-4 years (1 year consents negotiations, 3 years approval + construction)
A geographical overview and photos of the sites are included in Appendix A2. This is the recommended option and
will be investigated further in section 6 of this document.
Option 7 - New Grid Supply Point at Coggeshall

Option 7 proposes the creation of a new Grid Supply Point near Coggeshall, supplied from the 400kV circuits
Bramford-Rayleigh. To fully implement this option, new 132kV circuits are required between Coggeshall GSP and the
PCB overhead line, similar to option 5.2.
a. Creation of a 400/132kV Grid Supply Point;
b. Installation of a 400/132kV SGT by National Grid;
c. Installation of 132kV feeder circuit breakers;
Estimate cost for substation reinforcement works 21.3m
Page 20 of 35

d. Installation of two 132kV circuits between Coggeshall and Rushley Green:
Option 5.2.1 is for a overhead line with 175mm2 conductors each capable of 99/123MVA along a
17.5km route (shortest route: 4 and 5);
each capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation along a 18km route, 40% in carriage way;
e. For the underground solution: 5 directional drills;
f. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and modifications to existing 132kV towers east of Belchamp Tee;
g. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near Bramford;
Summary of Option 6
Route length 17.5km (minimum). Route initially assessed;
o A substantial part of the route has been identified as known archaeological area;
o River crossings;
The underground route is largely unexplored and will require route feasibility.
Option 7.1 132kV Overhead line
Estimate cost 16.5m
Estimate total cost 37.8m
Option 7.2 132kV Underground cable
Estimate cost 31.0m
Coggeshall
GSP
Page 21 of 35

This option has been discounted due to cost, high risk factor (archaeological and environmental), complex wayleave
negotiations, long timescale and public awareness of new 132kV overhead lines.
Option 8 - New Grid Supply Point at Earls Colne

Option 8 proposes the creation of a new Grid Supply Point near Earls Colne, supplied from the 400kV circuits
Bramford-Rayleigh. To fully implement option 7, new 132kV circuits are required between Earls Colne GSP and the
PCB overhead line, similar to option 5.2.
b. Installation of a 400/132kV SGT by National Grid;
c. Installation of 132kV feeder circuit breakers;
Estimate cost for substation reinforcement works 21.3m
d. Installation of two 132kV circuits between Coggeshall and Rushley Green:
Option 8.1 is for a overhead line with 175mm2 conductors each capable of 99/123MVA along a 10km
route (shortest route: 4 and 5);
Option 8.2 is for an underground route with single core cables with a minimum size of 300mm Al, each
capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation along a 10.5km route, 20% in carriage way;
f. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and modifications to existing 132kV towers east of Belchamp Tee;
g. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near Bramford;
Summary of Option 8
Route length 10km (minimum). Route initially assessed;
o A substantial part of the route has been identified as known archaeological area;
o River crossing;
o Major roads: A1124;
Estimate cost 9.8m
Estimate time to implement 5 years (2 years consents negotiations, 2-3 years approval + construction)
Estimate cost 22.9m
Estimate time to implement 5 years (2 years consents negotiations, 2-3 years approval + construction)
Page 22 of 35

Earls Colne
GSP
Page 23 of 35

4.
STRATEGIC OPTIONS EVALUATION
The options evaluation takes into account several criteria which consider relevant technical aspects, financial,
deliverability, environmental and interactions with National Grid reinforcement programme.
Each potential option has been assessed to ensure that it meets the need case to provide an alternative supply to
the existing 132kV circuits between Twinstead Tee and Bramford and that the resultant distribution system is
compliant with the various statutory and licence obligations. The implications on both the local and regional
distribution system have been fully assessed and the impact on the current infrastructure development plan is
understood.
4.1
Recommended Option
It has been confirmed that Option 6 for a new Grid Supply Point in the proximity of Twinstead is the appropriate
distribution network reinforcement that should be considered in the context of transferring the existing 132kV
overhead line between Twinstead Tee and Burstall Bridge.
The configuration of a new Grid Supply Point will depend on technical and operational considerations. Several
configurations and running arrangements have been initially considered and are detailed in the table below along
with the justification for non acceptance:
Configuration of a new GSP
Comments
Outcome
1x SGT connected to a 132kV single

circuit
The existing 132kV circuit to Bramford provides 99/123MVA of capacity

following a N-1 scenario. A connection to a single 132kV circuit would
result in the loss of N-1 capacity and a reduction in network security.
Reject
1xSGT Twinstead open 132kV CB at

Thaxted
Class D group requiring immediate recover of Belchamp winter MD-20MW=

60MW in 2010/11. NGET will need to secure the total demand immediately
for a first circuit outage of the SGT or 400kV circuits. Without an automatic
switching arrangement between Twinstead/Thaxted/Pelham it will not be
possible to achieve the required response time through the 132kV network
Reject
2xSGT open at Pelham CB
This option provides a limited use of the SGTs at Twinstead and no further
benefit to variations 1, 2 and 3. Possible voltage step change issues.
Reject
1xSGT open at Pelham
This option provides a limited use of the SGTs at Twinstead and no further
benefit to variations 1, 2 and 3. Possible voltage step change issues.
Reject
1xSGT connected to a 132kV double

busbar in parallel to Pelham SGT
This option has been studied in detail
Recommended

busbar in parallel to Pelham SGT
Considered
2xSGT connected to 2x 132kV CB at

Twinstead
Considered

busbar
Considered
Page 24 of 35

4.2
132kV Running Arrangement for Twinstead GSP
Several 132kV running arrangement have been analysed for the Twinstead-Pelham-Wymondley Group which also
provide further justification to the 132kV at Twinstead GSP.
The preferred arrangement is for the 132kV busbar to run solid where fault level constraints permit and for all SGT to
run in parallel. A typical double busbar arrangement is employed providing main and reserve busbars each with a
bus section circuit breaker thereby providing discrete sections of the busbar to which a SGT is connected. The main
and reserve busbar are coupled by means of a bus coupling circuit breaker. This configuration applies to both AIS
and GIS designs.
It has been determined that a 400/132kV SGT connected to a single section 132kV busbar with two 132kV feeder
circuit breakers to the existing 132kV OHL is the preferred initial configuration for Twinstead GSP designed to
accommodate future expansion to a 2xSGT and a double busbar 132kV with at least 4 feeder breakers as the DNO
network evolves.
The estimate total cost of the option is dependant on the location of the Grid Supply Point and is between 20.2 and
21.5m:
Substation Site
5.
NG S/S element
UKPN cct element
3x132kV CB
2x132kV cct
Estimate total
cost
Site 1 - Buttlers Wood
17.9m
3.6m
21.5m
Site 2 - Delvyns Lane
17.9m
2.3m
20.2m
Site 3 - Colne Valley farm
17.9m
2.3m
20.2m
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
Reference
Description
Appendix A1
Eastern Power Networks Distribution area
Appendix A2
Twinstead GSP proposed locations
Appendix A3
Summary of Strategic Options
DOCUMENTS
Date
Description
October 2009
Bramford to Twinstead connection Substation Sitting Study
October 2009
Bramford to Twinstead 400kV Overhead line project Strategic Optioneering Report
June 2011
Bramford to Twinstead Tee connection project Review of Strategic Options Report
June 2011
Bramford to Twinstead Tee Need case for the east Anglia region
Page 25 of 35
132kV network reconfiguration to accommodate wider systems works

APPENDIX A1:
EASTERN POWER NETWORKS DISTRIBUTION AREA
Page 26 of 35

APPENDIX A2:
TWINSTEAD GSP PROPOSED LOCATIONS
GSP Site 1 Butlers Wood and Waldegrave Wood
Site 1
~1.5km
400kV OHL crossing A131
View of Site 1 (Butlers wood left, Walgreave wood right)
View of the 132kV from Site 1
Source (photos): National Grid.
Page 27 of 35

GSP Site 2 Delvyns Lane
Site 2
Sudbury Road heading to Castle Hedingham
PCB 112 crossing site 2
400kV OHL north of site 2
Page 28 of 35

GSP Site 3 - Colne Valley Farm Park
Site 3
Entrance to Colne Valley Railway (Facing East)
PCB123 132kV
Facing East (400kV on the left)
Page 29 of 35

Twinstead Diamond crossing 400kV/132kV
PCB 88B
400kV/132kV Diamond Crossing (PCB 88A & PCB 88B)
PCB 88A
Page 30 of 35

400kV Tee near Twinstead village
400kV Bramford/Rayleigh/Pelham (Twinstead Tee)
Page 31 of 35

APPENDIX A3:
SUMMARY OF STRATEGIC OPTIONS
Brief description
Option 1 - Do Nothing
N/A
Scope of Works
N/A
Option 2 - Replace 132kV circuits between Twinstead and Burstall Bridge

Maintain the existing N-1 transfer
a. Installation of two 132kV circuits, made up of single
capacity between Pelham and Bramford
core cables with a minimum size of 300mm Al, each
by the replacement of an existing 26km
capable of 107/126MVA, in ducted trefoil formation,
of 132kV double circuit overhead line
along a 26km route, partial in carriage way ;
b. 6 directional drill;
with two 132kV underground circuits to
PCB5 near Bramford GSP.
c. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
modifications to existing 132kV towers east of
Belchamp Tee;
d. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;
Option 3 - Extension of the 132kV PCB overhead line from Twinstead

See 3.1 and 3.2
capacity from Pelham by the replacement
of the existing 24km of 132kV double
circuit overhead line with another 132kV
double circuit.
3.1 Twinstead Lawford 132kV substation
Installation of two 132kV circuits along a 24km route.
New 132kV circuits are required between
Option 3.1.1 is for an overhead line route with
Twinstead and Lawford 132kV:
175mm2 conductors each capable of
99/123MVA;
Option 3.1.2 is for an underground route with
single core cables with a minimum size of
300mm Al, each capable of 107/126MVA, in
ducted trefoil formation, 30% in carriage way;
a. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
b. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;
Major Risks
The current infrastructure is unable to permanently support the demand at Belchamp and
Thaxted Grids without the backup offered by the 132kV circuits to Bramford.

o Within the Stour Valley area.
o Dedham Vale area of outstanding natural beauty;
o Close proximity to ancient woodlands;
o River crossings: Stour, Brett and Belstead;
o Network Rail: Sudbury to Marks Tey rural line;
Requires route feasibility study.
This option would prompt upstream reinforcement at Bramford. Current estimate
cost of reinforcement works at Bramford is 12.8m for reinforcing the 132kV
circuit from Lawford to Bramford and 45m for 132kV switchgear replacement due
to fault level.
See 3.1 and 3.2

o Close proximity to Dedham Vale area of outstanding natural beauty;
o Network rail: Norwich London Liverpool street main line and Sudbury
Marks Tey rural line.
This option would prompt upstream reinforcement at Bramford. Current estimate
cost of reinforcement works at Bramford is 12.8m for reinforcing the 132kV
circuit from Lawford to Bramford and 45m for 132kV switchgear replacement due
to fault level.
Cost / Time
Result
N/A
Discount
Estimate total cost including reinforcement

works at Bramford is 103m;
Rejected
Estimate time to implement 5-6 years
See 3.1 and 3.2

works at Bramford is 80.5m;
Estimate time to implement 6-7 years.
Rejected

Page 32 of 35

3.2 Twinstead Abberton Grid (OHL or UG)
a. Installation of two 132kV circuits along a 22km
Twinstead and Abberton 132kV:
route.
Option 3.2.1 is for an overhead line route with
175mm2 conductors each capable of
99/123MVA;
ducted trefoil formation, 20% in carriage way;
b. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
c. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;
Option 4 - 33kV Network Reinforcement

The loss of the 132kV circuits to Bramford
GSP results in a P2/6 non compliance
due to insufficient backup available from
the 33kV network to support the demand
of Belchamp and Thaxted Grid.
See 4.1 and 4.2

o Close proximity to the Dedham vale area of outstanding natural beauty;
o Crossing of the Bramford Rayleigh Pelham 400kV circuit;
o River crossings: Colne and Roman;
o Major roads: A12, A1124 A120, A1071;
o Network rail: London Liverpool street main line and Sudbury Marks Tey
rural line.
A detailed assessment is required to identify reinforcement of the 132kV circuits
and increased SGT capacity on the Bramford/Rayleigh group depending on the
location of the 132kV injection at Colchester.
Estimate cost of reinforcement works at Bramford is 12.8m for reinforcing the
132kV circuit from Lawford to Bramford and 45m for 132kV switchgear
replacement due to fault level.
Estimate costs for reinforcement of the 132kV circuits to Rayleigh is 50m.

to Bramford is 79m;
works to Rayleigh is 75m;
Rejected

Estimate total cost including 132kV
reinforcement works to Rayleigh is 92.5m;
See 4.1 and 4.2
See 4.1 and 4.2
4.1 Resolve 33kV circuit constraints

Reinforce of 33kV circuits. See document.
This option would involve installing
remote switching in the network and
replacing the limiting overhead line
circuits
Technical constraints (voltage limitations), inability to permanently supply Haverhill,

Sudbury and Saffron Walden for a N-2 on the 132kV OHL and offers limited capacity
increase.
Estimate total cost of reinforcement at 33kV

is 9.4m.
Rejected
4.2 Increase 33kV interconnection

33kV interconnection from Belchamp and There are several projects within UKPN investment plan to
Thaxted can be enhanced by constructing provide additional circuits and improve the resilience of the
network in the area:
new 33kV interconnectors
The increase in interconnection would resolve the immediate issues but wont provide
sufficient capacity to cater for the developments expected in the area
Estimate total cost of reinforcement at 33kV

is 20m.
Rejected
See 5.1 and 5.2
Estimate cost for substation reinforcement

works 32m
Estimate time to implement 4 years
Option 5 - Reinforce Braintree GSP and install new 132kV circuits to Rushley Green
capacity between Pelham and Bramford
a. Modifications to the 400kV arrangement at Braintree
by the replacement of the existing 26km
by National Grid;
of 132kV double circuit overhead line
b. Installation of a 3rd 400/132kV SGT by National Grid;
with two 132kV circuits to Braintree GSP
c. Installation of two 132kV circuit breakers and
associated equipment;
Page 33 of 35

5.1 132kV Braintree Rushley Green (OHL or UG)
d. Installation of two 132kV circuits between Braintree
Braintree GSP and the PCB overhead line.
and the 132kV PCB OHL:
Option 5.1.1 is for a overhead line with 175mm2
conductors capable of 99/123MVA along a
18km route;
ducted trefoil formation along a 17km route,
50% in carriage way;
f. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
g. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;
5.2 132kV OHL Braintree Abberton teed off to Twinstead (OHL or UG)
New 132kV overhead line circuits are
d. Installation of two 132kV circuits between
required between Coggeshall and the
Coggeshall and Rushley Green:
PCB overhead line
conductors capable of 99/123MVA on a 17.5km
route;
ducted trefoil formation along an 18km route,
f. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
g. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;
Option 6 - New Grid Supply Point at Twinstead
Creation of a new Grid Supply Point near
b. Installation of 400/132kV SGT by National Grid.
Twinstead, adjacent to the 400kV circuits
Further information on 6.1;
Bramford-Pelham and in close proximity
c. Installation of 132kV switchgear. Further information
with the Thaxted to Bramford 132kV
on 6.1;
circuits
d. Installation of two 132kV underground circuits
between the substation and the 132kV circuits;
e. Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
f. Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;

Reinforcement at Braintree has been identified following the connection to the
132kV PCB circuit.

works at Braintree is 49m

Reinforcement at Braintree has been identified following the connection to the
132kV PCB circuit.

works at Braintree is 46.5m

o No major engineering difficulties indentified.
See Report for details. Several running

arrangements have been proposed and the
recommendation is for a single 400/132kV
SGT connected to a single busbar to 132kV
feeder circuit breakers connected to the
existing OHL.
Rejected

works at Braintree is 62.4m
Rejected
Option 5.2.2 132kV Underground

works at Braintree is 63m
Recomm
end
Estimate cost is dependant on the location

of the Grid Supply Point as per the table
below:
Site 1 - Buttlers Wood
21.5m
Site 2 - Delvyns Lane
20.2m
Site 3 - Colne Valley farm
20.2m
Page 34 of 35

Option 7 - New Grid Supply Point at Coggeshall
Coggeshall, supplied from the 400kV
circuits Bramford-Rayleigh.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Option 8 - New Grid Supply Point at Earls Colne
a.
b.
Earls Colne, supplied from the 400kV
c.
circuits Bramford-Rayleigh.
d.
e.
f.
g.

Installation of a 400/132kV SGT by National Grid;
Installation of 132kV feeder circuit breakers;
Installation of two 132kV circuits between
conductors each capable of 99/123MVA along a
17.5km route (shortest route: 4 and 5);
ducted trefoil formation along a 18km route,
For the underground solution: 5 directional drills;
Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;

Installation of a 400/132kV SGT by National Grid;
Installation of 132kV feeder circuit breakers;
Installation of two 132kV circuits between
Option 8.1 is for a overhead line with 175mm2
conductors each capable of 99/123MVA along a
10km route (shortest route: 4 and 5);
Option 8.2 is for an underground route with
ducted trefoil formation along a 10.5km route,
For the underground solution: 2 directional drills;
Construction of a 132kV terminal tower and
Belchamp Tee;
Modification to the existing 132kV OHL near
Bramford;

o A substantial part of the route has been identified as known
archaeological area;
o River crossings;


o A substantial part of the route has been identified as known
archaeological area;
o River crossing;
o Major roads: A1124;

Rejected

Rejected

Estimate total cost 44.2mx
Page 35 of 35

132kV Network Reconfiguration

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132kV Network Reconfiguration

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132kV network reconfiguration to

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