Summary
A report about a fire at a substation, which caused Heathrow Airport to close for almost a day, has been released. The fire was caused by moisture in a piece of equipment, and National Grid was warned about this issue seven years ago but did not fix it. Heathrow is considering legal action, claiming the problem could have been avoided.
Key Facts
- The fire happened at a substation that helps supply electricity to Heathrow Airport.
- Moisture got into a part of the equipment called a "bushing," leading to a fire.
- National Grid was warned about the moisture issue back in July 2018.
- Heathrow relies heavily on three main electricity connections but did not prepare for one failing.
- National Grid did not realize the substation's critical role for Heathrow's operations.
- Energy suppliers and critical infrastructure like airports need better communication to prevent such issues.
- Heathrow is unhappy and may take legal action, believing that National Grid failed to address the problem.
- National Grid stated it will work with investigations and maintains a regular maintenance program.
