Work is underway to modernise a main electricity substation in Wales.

Over £2m is to be invested by SP Energy Networks to upgrade the facility in Newtown.

The substation supplies power to over 40,000 homes and businesses.

The new modern infrastructure will boost the security of electricity supplies.

It will be the most significant upgrade since the substation was initially constructed in 1960.

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The main contractor on the project is Iberdrola Engineering and Construction (IEC). The project is due to run until May 2016.

Along with replacing the main grid transformer unit, the existing concrete structures within the substation will also be completely revamped.

Mark Sobczak, Head of 132kV Programmes SP Energy Networks, said: "This project will not only boost electricity supplies in and around Newtown, it will also reinforce supplies across the east of Wales, as this substation is a key part of the wider regional high voltage network. This investment follows on from similar major upgrades in Welshpool and Oswestry, and is part of programme to deliver some of the biggest upgrades to the network in more than half a century."

(LM/CD)