London’s iconic transport network, the London Underground, is taking a major step into the future. UK Power Networks Services has been awarded a critical £24 million contract to comprehensively upgrade the power infrastructure across the tube, supporting expanded service capacity and the introduction of new-generation trains on the Piccadilly line. This huge project represents a vital step towards modernising London’s underground system and delivering more reliable and frequent services to passengers.
This new contract is particularly important for the state-of-the-art '24 Tube It is the second phase of vital work to integrate the Stock trains. Once completed, the Piccadilly line will have an impressive capacity of 27 trains per hour during peak times. This significant increase will significantly reduce current congestion on the line and have a positive impact on the passenger experience. More frequent services will reduce waiting times and improve the flow of transport on this heavily used artery in London.
Alongside these improvements on the Piccadilly line, the contract also sees a significant increase in electrical capacity for the Northern line. This network-wide power boost will not only ensure the smooth running of the new trains, but will also improve the overall reliability of the existing service. This investment is designed to meet increasing passenger demand and provide a solid foundation for future growth, ensuring that London Underground remains a sustainable and efficient transport system.
To deliver the project, experienced engineers will rebuild the transformer substations in Neasden, Acton Town and Ravenscourt Park, key points of the metro network, using a modern approach and installing high voltage equipment. Extensive work has started on March 25 and is planned to be completed by 2027, with meticulous planning. This timeline has been set considering the complexity of the project and the sensitivity of the infrastructure work.
UK Power Networks Services will manage all aspects of this important project from design to delivery. The company specialises in distributed energy solutions, power management and critical infrastructure support, and stands out with its deep knowledge and experience in this area. The company’s portfolio includes large and critical clients such as Network Rail, the Ministry of Defence, the Port of Felixstowe and Canary Wharf. The services it offers cover a wide range of areas including consultancy, asset management and operational processes.
UK Power Networks Services’ strong track record with London Underground is also notable, having previously secured another major £2022 million contract for the Piccadilly line in June 40. It has also successfully completed critical substation upgrade projects on the Metropolitan, Circle, District and Hammersmith & City lines. This track record demonstrates the company’s in-depth knowledge of London Underground’s complex infrastructure and ability to successfully manage such large-scale projects.
UK Power Networks Services Director David Mitchell made a statement highlighting the strategic value and importance of the new contract. “We are proud to be progressing these critical upgrades that support London Underground and enable the next generation of transport,” he said. “These words clearly demonstrate the company’s commitment to the future of London’s transport infrastructure and the key role it will play in this important project.
As a result, this strong partnership between UK Power Networks Services and London Underground is playing a critical role in shaping the city’s transport future. This £24 million investment and infrastructure upgrade will ensure that London’s underground system is more resilient, more efficient and ready to meet future travel demands. This important step ensures that London Underground remains a modern and reliable system that can meet the transport needs not only of today but also of tomorrow.
