A £2.5 million overhead line upgrade that will boost the local electricity network in East Lothian is set to get underway at the end of the month thanks to SP Energy Networks.
We will rebuild 16km and refurbish 12km of overhead lines in Haddington, Ballencrieff and Longniddry from the end of May, with the works set to last around 15 weeks.
The £2.5 million investment will increase network reliability and resilience and boost capacity on the network to facilitate the connection of more low-carbon technologies like electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps.
During the works, there will be planned temporary power outages as sections of the line are removed and replaced, with alternative electricity supplies provided via temporary generators for affected customers.
All those affected will be contacted directly in advance of the works getting underway, so individual circumstances can be taken into account.
A temporary overnight road closure will be required on the A1 between 8pm on Saturday 31 May until 6am on Sunday 1 June as the works get underway. The closure will affect the A1 in both directions between Abbotsview Junction and Oaktree Junction, with diversions in place.
Temporary traffic management restrictions will also be required on local roads as the works progress.
Sean Gavaghan, SP Energy Networks’ Head of Planning & Network Improvement for Edinburgh and the Borders, said: “This important investment will make a significant difference for our customers in East Lothian, replacing equipment that was installed in the 1950s with modern and smart technology that will improve both network reliability and resilience. In practice, this means less likelihood of faults occurring and quicker response times if they do.
“It will also ensure our network has the capacity to meet increasing demand for electricity as people make cleaner and greener choices about how they live their lives, so it’s a real win-win all round.
“We know there will be some disruption as we carry out these essential works – including a planned weekend overnight closure on the A1 as well as temporary traffic restrictions on local roads.
“We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We will do everything we can to keep any disruption to a minimum and to complete the works as safely and as quickly as possible.”