Piccadilly Line Power Upgrade works are now underway following the award of a £24 million contract to UK Power Networks Services. The firm has been entrusted with enhancing the high-voltage power infrastructure in preparation for the rollout of a new fleet of trains on London Underground’s Piccadilly line.
This latest agreement marks the second phase of infrastructure upgrades that are pivotal to the introduction of the next-generation’ ‘24 Tube Stock’ (24TS) trains.
Once fully operational, the modernised system will enable an increased service frequency on the Piccadilly line, raising peak-time capacity to 27 trains per hour. Additionally, the improvements will bolster network resilience on the Northern Line.
The project comprises:
- Significant substation upgrades across several key locations
- Enhancements and modifications to high-voltage systems
- Extension works at sites including Neasden, Acton Town, and Ravenscourt Park
Construction commenced on 25 March 2025 and is set to continue through to completion in 2027.
UK Power Networks Services brings extensive expertise in energy systems and infrastructure delivery. Their capabilities span energy technology consultancy, asset finance, major project execution, operations, and asset lifecycle management.
Their portfolio features prominent names such as London St. Pancras High Speed, Network Rail, the Ministry of Defence, Felixstowe Port, and Canary Wharf.
The latest contract reinforces the company’s enduring partnership with the London Underground. In June 2022, they were awarded a £40 million contract to support Piccadilly line developments. They have also been instrumental in key initiatives such as:
- Major redevelopment at Liverpool Street for Crossrail
- Substation upgrades across 16 sites on the Metropolitan, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and District lines
David Mitchell, Director of UK Power Networks Services, commented: “UK Power Networks Services is thrilled to support work that will enable the rollout of new trains on London Underground’s Piccadilly line, with the signing of our latest contract to upgrade sections of the London Underground High Voltage power network.
We are proud to continue our longstanding partnership with London Underground and Transport for London.”
