What kind of work will Elia do?
Elia wants to upgrade a high-voltage line running through the municipalities of Kruibeke, Temse, Bornem, Puurs-Sint-Amands, Buggenhout, Londerzeel, Merchtem, Asse and Dilbeek. This line will be equipped with a new type of conductor that can transmit more power.
As the new conductors are heavier than those currently used, Elia intends to reinforce the ironwork and foundations of 64 pylons and completely replace six pylons.
Installing new conductors
The existing Mercator-Bruegel high-voltage line will be equipped with High Temperature Low Sag (HTLS) conductors, a new type of conductor that can transmit more power than the current conductors. Their structure makes them less likely to sag as a result of the heat generated by power transmission, meaning that Elia can transmit more electricity at the same voltage level (380 kV).
Pulling the new conductors - © Elia
Working on high-voltage pylons
The new conductors are heavier than those currently used, so the existing high-voltage pylons need to be reinforced in order to be able to support them. The Mercator-Bruegel high-voltage line comprises 70 high-voltage pylons, 64 of which will have their foundations and ironwork reinforced by Elia.
Reinforcing the ironwork of a high-voltage pylon - © Elia
Elia will also completely replace six pylons at the following locations:
- Mercator high-voltage substation, Kruibeke
- Along the N16, Bornem
- Wilgenweg, Puurs-Sint-Amands
- Zwaluwstraat, Londerzeel
- Along Gemeentelos, Asse
- Bruegel high-voltage substation, Dilbeek
More information about all phases of the project is available here.
Will Elia be carrying out work on my property?
Elia has either already notified those owning land on which it needs to work, or will do so during the preparation phase. Elia is committed to causing as little damage as possible and will make clear arrangements with the affected landowners regarding the performance of the work.
Need more information?
In February 2021, Elia held a digital information session on the Mercator-Bruegel project. The video below provides comprehensive details about the project. You can watch a recording of the session here.
