Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission (SSEN Transmission) has awarded a £70 million contract for Overhead Line works in the west of Scotland.

Balfour Beatty will deliver the two-year contract, which will see the firm design, construct and engineer the new 37km, 275kV double circuit Overhead Line, which will connect the two Argyll towns of Inveraray and Lochgilphead.

The Overhead Line will also form the first phase of SSEN Transmission's Inveraray to Crossaig project to reinforce the existing transmission network in the area.

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Once complete, it will enable renewable wind power facilities to be connected to the national electricity network and ensure the continued security of the supply of power throughout the west of Scotland.

The team will use Building Information Modelling (BIM) software and drones to plan and design the line as well as reduce the need to work at height.

Ian Currie, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty's Power Transmission and Distribution business said: "We are committed to delivering this latest Overhead Line asset with a focus on embedding innovation to continuously improve the safety and productivity of the project.

"We look forward to supporting the continued delivery of the stable and ongoing supply of electricity to the communities in the west of Scotland."   

Works are due to commence this autumn with completion of the first phase scheduled for 2021.

(CM/MH)