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Upgrading our campus High Voltage Power Network
Posted on behalf of: Better Campus
Last updated: Friday, 18 July 2025
Campus is powered by a High Voltage electrical network made up of a system of Ring Mains. These Ring Mains keep campus running - powering everything from plug sockets to streetlamps. They deliver high voltage electricity to transformers and switchboards, which then convert it to Low Voltage electricity and distribute it throughout campus.
Upgrading our network
The University currently has two Ring Mains – North and South – and work has now started to upgrade our network supply by introduction of a new West Ring Main which will deliver the following benefits:
- Increased supply of high voltage electrical capacity, sufficient to power the West Slope development, additional EV Chargers and future building developments
- Increased operational flexibility and resilience across the entire campus by balancing electrical high voltage loadings across 3 ring mains
- Improved electrical output efficiency helping to reduce energy costs.
What to expect
Work to install the new West Ring Main is now underway.
Over the summer, you may notice teams digging trenches, installing ducting, and laying cabling to the West of campus – from the woodland area adjacent to the A27 to the Sports Centre, and around to the ACCA, Library, IDS, Jubilee and Essex House.
The majority of work will take place in grass areas, but some temporary roadworks will be required in front of Jubilee Car Park, which will be communicated in advance.
Want to know more?
To keep up-to-date with any transport impacts, please check the weekly Transport Update on the Staff Hub and join our Viva Engage Campus Travel and Transport community.
If you have any queries about the impact of the works, please email bettercampus@sussex.ac.uk.