Hackney is going through a quiet but important transformation — one that’s happening both beneath the streets and in the palm of your hand.
A Power Upgrade That Matters
Behind the fences at the Hackney substation, National Grid engineers are working on a multi-year upgrade that will future-proof the borough’s energy supply. Outdated transformers are being swapped for modern, gas-insulated versions that promise to reduce carbon emissions, improve reliability, and lower noise pollution.
The new equipment is expected to come online in phases, with the first transformer arriving by spring 2026 and the second a year later. Though most of the work is out of public view, temporary access points and laydown areas in nearby Millfields Park are part of the plan — a small disruption in exchange for long-term gain.
The project is part of a broader effort to prepare London’s grid for rising demand, particularly as electric vehicles, data centres, and dense housing developments place more pressure on power infrastructure.
Mobile Connectivity: Still Catching Up
While Hackney’s energy grid is stepping into the future, mobile coverage has been slower to follow.
Many residents still experience spotty 4G and unreliable 5G, especially indoors or in older buildings with thick walls. A recent push by Transport for London, however, is starting to make a difference. Over the last year, dozens of Underground stations — including parts of the Northern and Elizabeth lines — have been outfitted with 4G and 5G access, helping passengers stay connected between stops.
Yet Hackney’s coverage remains uneven. Unlike smaller towns, urban boroughs like Hackney face unique challenges: dense development, planning restrictions, and resistance to new towers mean network improvements happen gradually.
Still, thanks to new shared-infrastructure agreements between mobile operators and government-backed funding, residents are likely to see performance improve over the next 12 to 24 months.
SIM-Only Deals: Smarter Choices, Better Timing
As networks expand and tech evolves, SIM-only plans are becoming the default for people looking to take control of their mobile usage — without signing two-year contracts or paying over the odds.
Platforms like Olimit have made it easier to browse, compare, and switch plans with minimal hassle. Whether you’re after unlimited data, roaming support, or something basic for emergencies, Olimit brings together a wide range of offers in one place — including eSIM options for newer devices.
What’s changed in the SIM market?
- More flexibility: Month-to-month plans mean you’re no longer tied into a network just to get decent data.
- eSIM adoption: With more phones supporting eSIM, setup is faster and often instant — ideal for travellers and digital nomads.
- Travel-ready packages: Many UK providers now include generous roaming, even outside of Europe.
- No hidden fees: Comparison platforms make it easier to spot “catch-free” deals, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
For anyone in Hackney juggling remote work, side gigs, or travel plans, it’s an easy way to take back control of your mobile bill.
A Borough in Transition
From power substations to SIM cards, Hackney is in the middle of a quiet evolution. While the changes might not be as visible as new housing or bike lanes, they’re just as vital.
Energy upgrades will keep the lights on in a growing borough. Expanded mobile access will help more people stay connected on the move. And smarter mobile plans mean Hackney’s residents — renters, students, freelancers, and families — can stay online without overpaying.
In a city that never stops moving, that’s something to look forward to.
