Landmark Progress on the Reading Independent Feeder Project

Landmark Progress on the Reading Independent Feeder Project

7 November 2023

We are excited to share a video that showcases the progress made on the substation site at Holly Cross as part of the Reading Independent Feeder (RIF) project being undertaken by Network Rail (NR).

The RIF project is a part of the NR Wales and Western Decarbonisation Team’s initiative to provide an independent HV electricity supply to Holly Cross, the new feeder substation built by Enable Infrastructure as featured in our video.

The objective of the project is to provide a backup supply to the Reading substation to enhance the reliability, availability, and maintainability of the existing network. The Holly Cross ATFS substation will also be able to facilitate potential future 25kV electrification of the adjacent railway, which is currently non-electrified.

The video showcases the entire process at Holly Cross from a green, pastoral field to the initial foundation works to the arrival and installation of crucial technology such as Transformers, Structure Mounted Outdoor Switchgear (SMOS) pallets, and the Module building.

Chris Jones, Enable Construction Manager said: “We are thrilled to present the progress we have made over the past year, from a bare plot of land to a rapidly developing substation facility that will help power the railway for years to come. The achievement would not have been possible without the hard work of many skilled professionals, and we extend our gratitude to everyone involved and our main collaborators. Our work here demonstrates Enable’s specialism in managing important and complex projects. It showcases our collective expertise in construction and power and drives forward our goal to deliver sustainable infrastructure for the long term”.

Sandy Dosanjh, Network Rail Project Manager said: “The video shows the amazing progress made by Enable for the construction works and the delivery of all equipment on site.”

Please enjoy our video below: