Supporting low-voltage grid innovation to help unlock more capacity from the UK’s electricity network

Woodlands Power was selected to provide a temporary power solution to support the loadbank testing of innovative Network Exchanger (NEx) technology ahead of its deployment across UK Power Networks’ low-voltage network.

The testing programme forms a critical part in validating technology designed to increase capacity on existing electrical infrastructure, helping distribution network operators meet rising electricity demand without the need for extensive and costly network reinforcement.

The Challenge

As the transition to net zero accelerates, the rapid uptake of electric vehicles, heat pumps and renewable energy technologies is placing pressure on the UK’s low-voltage networks.

To help address these challenges, UK Power Networks is trialling NEx technology, an innovative solution designed to optimise the performance of secondary substations. By improving voltage regulation, balancing electrical loads and enhancing power quality, NEx enables existing infrastructure to accommodate greater demand while improving network resilience and flexibility.

Before deployment across the network, the technology required comprehensive loadbank testing under controlled conditions to verify its performance, reliability and operational capability.

The Solution

We designed and supplied a complete temporary power package to facilitate the testing programme, delivering reliable power generation alongside a comprehensive loadbank solution capable of accurately simulating real-world electrical demand.

The equipment supplied included:

• 2 × 500kVA generators
• 1 × 2,674kVA resistive/reactive loadbank
• 2 × 1,077kW resistive loadbanks
• 1 × 638kW resistive loadbank
• Temporary distribution equipment
• Fuel management systems

Working closely with the project team, our solution provided the stable, controlled power environment required to conduct rigorous testing, ensuring the Network Exchanger technology could be fully evaluated before installation on the live electricity network.

The Outcome

The critical testing programme helped to validate technology that has the potential to transform how low-voltage electricity networks manage increasing demand in the UK.

Solutions such as NEx will help distribution network operators unlock additional capacity from existing assets, reduce the need for traditional network reinforcement and create a more resilient, flexible electricity network capable of supporting the UK’s ongoing electrification.

The project demonstrates the vital role temporary power and specialist loadbank testing play in accelerating innovation across the energy sector, ensuring new technologies can be deployed with confidence and reliability.