National Grid has joined the East Midlands Chamber as a patron, creating a direct channel between the transmission operator and the region’s business community at a time when grid capacity and long-term energy planning sit high on corporate agendas.
East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “I’m pleased to welcome National Grid as a patron of the Chamber.
“Reliable, clean and affordable electricity is essential and it’s good to see National Grid outline plans to safeguard provision in the East Midlands as part of ‘The Great Grid Upgrade’.
“Becoming a patron means our members can share insight with National Grid on their electricity needs, while the Chamber can draw on the company’s expertise when speaking with political leaders.”
The partnership comes as National Grid advances early activity on the Great Grid Upgrade, a nationwide overhaul of ageing transmission infrastructure aimed at improving network resilience and meeting rising electricity demand.
In the East Midlands, current proposals include a new overhead line between the 400 kV substation at Chesterfield and Willington and around 60 kilometres of new 400 kV underground cable between Weston Marsh and East Leicestershire.
National Grid Head of External Affairs, Strategic Infrastructure – North, Steve Knight-Gregson said: “We’re delighted to join East Midlands Chamber and to work with its members to support the county’s growth, sustainability and innovation. National Grid is upgrading the electricity network across the country through The Great Grid Upgrade – the biggest investment in the UK’s electricity network for generations.”
