Unlooping

What is unlooping?

A ‘looped’ electricity supply is where two (or more) properties share a single electricity service cable from the main network. These are typically found in older semi-detached or terraced houses. The electricity cable enters the first house, usually underground from the mains in the footpath or road outside. A second cable, the looped service, then runs from the meter in the first house to the meter in the second house.

At the time of the build, it was easier and more cost-effective to install power supplies this way. While this is a perfectly acceptable arrangement for typical domestic electrical demand, a further increase in demand due to the connection of low carbon technologies like electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps may result in the need to replace the looped service with a direct supply.

As the demand for electricity increases, we need to split these supplies so every property has its own unique supply. Modern houses are built on an unlooped supply. 

We're taking proactive action to unloop properties as part of work to achieve the UK Government’s ambitious Net Zero targets. It will support the transition to cleaner, greener sustainable energy. This ensures properties are better equipped for future energy demands for example, electric car chargers, solar panels or heat pumps.

How is a looped supply unlooped?

The cable looping the two properties will be disconnected from the shared cut-out position. We will need to install a new cable between the main network, usually in the footpath, and the properties' meter positions.

We will excavate the looped area (usually your driveway) to install the new cable. We will then backfill and reinstate the surface, matching the style and material of your driveway (e.g. paved / cobbled / stoned / tarmac etc.) All work will be discussed with you and your neighbour in advance of any work starting.

Benefits of the work