SP Energy Networks is set to begin a £2.5 million project at the end of May to upgrade the overhead electricity network in East Lothian, enhancing power supplies for local communities.

The project involves rebuilding 16km and refurbishing a further 12km of overhead power lines across Haddington, Ballencrieff, and Longniddry. The works are scheduled to commence at the end of May 2025 and are expected to last approximately 15 weeks.

This significant investment aims to increase the reliability and resilience of the local electricity network. It will also boost capacity, facilitating the connection of more low-carbon technologies such as electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps, by replacing equipment originally installed in the 1950s.

During the upgrade works, SP Energy Networks has advised that there will be planned temporary power outages as sections of the line are removed and replaced. Alternative electricity supplies will be provided via temporary generators for affected customers, all of whom will be contacted directly in advance to discuss individual circumstances.

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The project will necessitate some travel disruption. A temporary overnight road closure will be implemented on the A1 from 8pm on Saturday, 31 May until 6am on Sunday, 1 June 2025. This closure will affect the A1 in both directions between Abbotsview Junction and Oaktree Junction, with signed diversions put in place. Additionally, temporary traffic management restrictions will be required on local roads as the work progresses through the different areas.

Sean Gavaghan, SP Energy Networks' Head of Planning & Network Improvement for Edinburgh and the Borders, said: "This important investment will make a significant difference for our customers in East Lothian, replacing equipment that was installed in the 1950s with modern and smart technology that will improve both network reliability and resilience. In practice, this means less likelihood of faults occurring and quicker response times if they do."

He added: "It will also ensure our network has the capacity to meet increasing demand for electricity as people make cleaner and greener choices about how they live their lives, so it's a real win-win all round. We know there will be some disruption as we carry out these essential works – including a planned weekend overnight closure on the A1 as well as temporary traffic restrictions on local roads. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We will do everything we can to keep any disruption to a minimum and to complete the works as safely and as quickly as possible."

The project represents a key step in modernising East Lothian's electricity infrastructure to support current and future energy needs.