About our Network

Electricity is transported across the country through the National Grid at 275,000 or 400,000 volts. It is reduced to 132,000 volts for regional distribution at substations known as Grid Supply Points. From there it is distributed to further substations via overhead lines or underground cables at 132,000 volts. The voltage is reduced again to 33,000 volts and subsequently to 11,000 volts. 

This distribution network then carries electricity to individual towns and villages throughout the South West of England and South and West Wales where distribution substations transform the voltage to 230 volts.

Our network comprises over 83,000 kms of lines and cables and 90,000 transformers which are used to step down voltages. The transformers vary in size from large units capable of supplying a town, to small ones on poles serving remote cottages.

Almost 60% of our network is overhead, reflecting the rural nature of our territory.  Overhead lines are used when long circuit lengths and small customer loads make the installation of underground circuits uneconomic.

We are committed to providing a safe and reliable electricity supply, striving constantly to improve the quality of service to our customers.