National Grid Invites Public Input on Major Clean Energy Project Linking Scotland and Northern England
National Grid has opened a public consultation on its early plans for the Cross Border Connection, a vital component of The Great Grid Upgrade — the largest investment in the UK’s electricity network in generations. This transformative project aims to deliver cleaner, more affordable, and home-grown energy from Scotland to millions of homes and businesses in the north of England while helping to meet the country’s rising demand for electricity.
Strengthening the UK’s Energy Network
The Cross Border Connection is designed to enhance the UK’s electricity transmission capacity between Scotland and England. As the UK accelerates its transition to renewable energy, more power from onshore and offshore wind sources needs to move efficiently across the national grid. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) identified this project as a critical step toward meeting that goal, citing the urgent need for additional grid capacity between the two nations.
Electricity demand across the UK is projected to rise by 50% over the next decade, including in Cumbria. This increase is driven by the growth of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and the wider electrification of transport and industry. The Cross Border Connection will ensure that this growing demand is met with cleaner, home-produced electricity rather than imported fossil fuels.
If approved, the new infrastructure will be capable of carrying up to 6.9 gigawatts (GW) of electricity — enough to power approximately six million homes. By improving energy flow and stability across the network, the project will bolster the UK’s energy security, help reduce carbon emissions, and support long-term economic growth in northern communities.
Infrastructure Plans for Carlisle and the Border Region
The project includes a new overhead electricity line running from the England–Scotland border near Kershopefoot to a new substation in the Carlisle area. Two potential substation sites are being assessed — one located north of Carlisle near Harker and another to the south of the city.
- Option A would connect to a new substation north of Carlisle, near the existing Harker substation. This route would involve around 28 kilometres of new overhead line.
- Option B would connect to a new substation south of Carlisle, requiring a 47-kilometre route. This longer route would cross the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site, just north of the River Eden, where the historic structure survives mainly as underground remains.
Both proposed routes pass through areas that already feature existing infrastructure, including power lines, roads, and modern development. National Grid has pledged to minimise visual and environmental impact, particularly on heritage and protected sites, and to work closely with local communities, environmental specialists, and heritage experts during every stage of planning and consultation.
Collaboration, Consultation, and Community Benefits
Public input will play a central role in shaping the final route and substation location. The consultation process will gather feedback from residents, landowners, local councils, and environmental groups to ensure that the project reflects community priorities and regional needs.
Alongside technical and environmental assessments, community insights will help determine the most responsible and effective design for the project. National Grid has also committed to delivering community benefit funding worth millions of pounds to areas hosting new infrastructure. These funds will support local initiatives, including skills development, job creation, and investment in green industries.
In addition, National Grid plans to work with wildlife and conservation organisations to enhance biodiversity along the project route and partner with heritage bodies to protect culturally significant landscapes.
A Joint Effort Across the Border
While National Grid is leading the English section of the Cross Border Connection, the Scottish section — running from the proposed Gala North Substation to the border — is being developed and consulted on separately by SP Energy Networks. Both organisations are coordinating their efforts to ensure the project delivers a seamless and sustainable connection across the border.
Supporting a Cleaner, More Resilient Energy Future
By strengthening the electricity network between Scotland and England, the Cross Border Connection will make it possible to move greater volumes of renewable power to where it is needed most. The project represents a major step forward in the UK’s ambition to achieve net zero emissions, reduce reliance on imported fuels, and create a cleaner, more resilient energy future for generations to come.
