The line was built to connect the Nemo Link, a 1,000MW undersea interconnector between Belgium and the UK, into the UK’s electricity transmission system.
The new line, consisting of 60 new pylons, is the first to be built in Kent for 25 years.
A total of 260km of high voltage cables have now been placed on the pylons and have been tested, paving the way for the final testing and commissioning of the Nemo Link interconnector, which will allow electricity to flow both ways between the UK and Europe. The connection was necessary as there is no high voltage transmission network in the Richborough area to carry electricity from the interconnector.
The construction work, carried out by 250 skilled workers at the peak of operations, involved more than 6,000 crane lifts to put the new pylons into place for a route that crosses eight roads, three rivers and three rail lines in its journey across the county.
Graham Dolamore, project director for National Grid said: “The completion of the Richborough Project is a significant milestone in the programme for these two projects, which will allow power to flow between Britain and Belgium early next year, providing security of supply and greater opportunities for the UK to trade with wider European energy markets.
In addition, works were also carried out at Canterbury North substation and the new Richborough substation with both substations extended and equipment either installed or upgraded. This work was carried out by ABB and Siemens. Some small-scale works will be carried out over the coming months in preparation for the removal of UK Power Network’s overhead lines in 2020.