Heathrow Power Cut Linked to Substation Fault

A fire that shut down Heathrow Airport in March was caused by moisture entering electrical components at a National Grid substation, according to a report from The National Energy System Operator (Neso). The report said “elevated” moisture was first detected in July 2018, when guidance required faulty parts to be replaced.

Energy regulator Ofgem has launched an investigation into National Grid’s handling of the issue. The outage forced Britain’s busiest airport to close, cancelling thousands of flights and disrupting more than 270,000 journeys. Essential services, including road, rail and Hillingdon Hospital, were also hit.

Airlines estimate the closure cost carriers between £80m and £100m.

Source: BBC News website