SP Energy Networks, which owns and manages Liverpool’s network of cables and power lines, has completed a major upgrade of 16km of underground cables between Lister Drive and Gateacre.
The work cost £15 million and is the largest 132,000 volt underground project to have been undertaken by SP Energy Networks in the SP Manweb area (Merseyside, Cheshire, North Shropshire and both Mid and North Wales) in the last 25 years. The project replaced two high voltage underground circuits, a key component of Liverpool’s electrical infrastructure, which have delivered electricity to local homes and businesses for over 65 years.
SP Energy Networks provides electricity to over 200,000 homes and businesses in Liverpool. The cables cover a geographic distance of 8.2km, but over 50km of underground cables were required during installation. The major works, from April 2015, involved more than 200 people contributing over 15 months.
The project was conducted in consultation with Liverpool City Council to minimise disruption wherever possible during cable excavation and reinstatement works, and to ensure energy supplies to customers were not disrupted. The project was undertaken by Iberdrola Engineering and Construction (IEC), SP Energy Networks’ principal contractor. 
Mark Sobczak, Head of 132kV Programmes SP Energy Networks, said: “This was a major upgrade project for the SP Manweb team and the biggest underground project we’ve undertaken in the city of Liverpool, and within the SP Manweb area. We’re pleased to announce it is now complete; cables are electrified and Liverpool’s electrical infrastructure has been strengthened for years to come.
“It’s our job to keep Liverpool’s lights on, and upgrade works are a big part of making that happen. Local residents and stakeholders were very supportive throughout the project and with Liverpool City Council’s help disruption was kept to a minimum.”
