Wireless power on the UK grid: integration and stability lens for engineers
Reviewed by Joe Ashwell

First reported on New Civil Engineer
30 Second Briefing
National Grid Electricity Distribution and UK startup Space Solar have begun a feasibility study into using wireless power transmission on Britain’s electricity network, assessing whether high-frequency radio or microwave links could move bulk power without new overhead lines or buried cables. The project will examine integration with existing 132kV–400kV infrastructure, potential use between substations or across constrained corridors, and impacts on grid stability, conversion efficiency and electromagnetic compatibility. Outcomes could influence future routing strategies where planning, geotechnical or wayleave constraints block conventional transmission assets.
Technical Brief
- Electromagnetic compatibility assessments will be critical near existing protection relays, SCADA, and telecoms circuits.
Our Take
Within our 650 Infrastructure stories, UK grid items involving National Grid Electricity Distribution tend to focus on conventional reinforcement and digitalisation, so a study into wireless power transmission signals NGED is testing technologies well beyond its usual incremental upgrades.
Because this is tagged as both Projects and Sustainability in our database, any viable wireless power transmission concept that Space Solar and NGED develop is likely to be evaluated not just on technical feasibility but on how it could defer or downsize carbon-intensive grid reinforcement works in Britain.
For UK-based infrastructure operators, early engagement with studies like this can shape future connection standards and wayleave expectations, as wireless or beamed power concepts would alter traditional assumptions about easements, corridor planning and electromagnetic exposure management on the UK grid.
Prepared by collating external sources, AI-assisted tools, and Geomechanics.io’s proprietary mining database, then reviewed for technical accuracy & edited by our geotechnical team.
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