March 2025 – Project Update: Sellindge Substation Lift Installation
Work is continuing at the National Grid’s Sellindge Substation, where we, VM Elevators are the leading the lift installation services provider as part of the site’s wider restoration.
This critical infrastructure project plays a vital role in re-establishing the substation’s full functionality following the September 2021 fire at the France-Anglettere interconnector, which left the power link between the UK and France offline for months.
Our project was paused temporarily due to unforeseen site conditions, but we are happy to be up and running again.
Located in Kent, Sellindge Substation has been a crucial part of Britain’s electricity network since its commissioning. It serves as the UK connection point for the IFA1 interconnector, a 2,000-megawatt subsea cable that has facilitated electricity trading between Britain and France since 1986. The interconnector has played an integral role in balancing supply and demand, particularly as the UK shifts towards renewable energy sources such as offshore wind. By enabling energy imports and exports, Sellindge has historically helped stabilise electricity prices and reduce reliance on fossil fuel generation.
In September 2021, a devastating fire broke out at the France-Anglettere interconnector, causing severe damage to the Sellindge Substation and forcing the shutdown of power flows between the UK and France. This disruption had widespread consequences, including increased energy costs and supply constraints across Britain’s electricity grid. While partial capacity was restored in March 2022, full restoration has required extensive reconstruction efforts, including the rebuilding of the damaged lift shaft and essential infrastructure upgrades.
As the appointed lift contractor, we have been working to fast-track the lift installation, ensuring that essential operational access is restored as soon as possible. Collaborating closely with the building company, which is responsible for the shaft reconstruction, we have maintained a tight project schedule to support the wider goal of bringing the interconnector back to full strength.
The Sellindge Substation restoration is a testament to the National Grid’s commitment to energy resilience and infrastructure modernisation.
VM Elevators is proud to contribute to this significant project, demonstrating our expertise in delivering high-quality, time-sensitive lift solutions for critical national infrastructure.
As we move towards project completion, we remain focused on precision, safety, and efficiency—ensuring that Sellindge Substation is equipped for the demands of Britain’s evolving energy landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the handover!
We install lifts in London and the UK Nationwide, contact us for a quotation: Get Quote – VM Elevators – Lift and Escalator Repair and Maintenance London UK
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