National Grid Removes 180-Tonne Transformers at Pelham
National Grid has removed two 180-tonne transformers from Pelham Substation in England, advancing its North London Reinforcement (NLR) project to expand electricity transmission capacity.
The transformers had operated for approximately 35 years. Each underwent phased decommissioning lasting around one month, including internal inspections to assess equipment condition and performance. Findings will inform future transformer design and asset management.
Contractors Murphy and Equans supported the removals, involving approximately 20 personnel. Heavy-lift cranes removed the transformer sections for disposal and recycling, alongside supporting air-insulated switchgear and noise enclosures.
“The transformer removals are a real milestone for everyone working at Pelham,” said Karthik Ravikumar, National Grid Project Director.
Two new 300-tonne quad boosters, designed to regulate power flows and increase transmission capacity, are expected between February and April 2027.
The wider NLR project will modernize ageing substations and double existing overhead line capacity between Pelham and Hackney, requiring coordinated equipment procurement and infrastructure upgrades.
Source: National Grid
