SSEN Transmission has launched its Spittal– Loch Buidhe – Beauly 400kV Connection project, setting out the key national infrastructure required to enable the connection of new clean green renewable energy in the east of Scotland to the GB grid.

They are inviting members of the public to join them at one of their public consultation events in February and March ahead of plans to develop the new transmission infrastructure.

As the Transmission Network Owner in the North of Scotland, SSEN Transmission are responsible for connecting new energy generation to the GB grid and transporting it to where is it needed via a high voltage 132kV, 275kV, 400kV electricity transmission network. Home to some of the UK's greatest renewable energy resources, the north of Scotland electricity transmission network has a strategic role to play in supporting delivery of the UK and Scotland's net zero targets

In July 2022, National Grid, the Electricity System Operator (ESO), published the Pathway to 2030 Holistic Network Design (HND), setting out the blueprint for the onshore and offshore electricity transmission network infrastructure required across the UK to enable the connection of forecasted growth in renewable electricity across Great Britain.  For the north of Scotland, this confirms the need for significant and strategic increase in the capacity of the onshore electricity transmission infrastructure to deliver 2030 targets and a pathway to net zero.

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As part of SSEN Transmission's 'Pathway to 2030' plan, they are proposing to reinforce the onshore corridor from Spittal to Beauly, providing a new 400kV connection between Spittal, Loch Buidhe and Beauly. These onshore reinforcements will comprise of upgrading existing infrastructure, new overhead line infrastructure and the construction of three new 400kV substations at Spittal, Loch Buidhe and Beauly, to facilitate these new 400kV connections.

Martin Goodwin, Community Liaison Manager said: “As a stakeholder led business, we are committed to working closely with local communities and stakeholders as we develop these critical national infrastructure projects.

“We encourage those with an interest in finding out more the project to join us in person at one of our consultation events or online at our virtual event and share their feedback on our proposals. You can also find out more about the different elements of the project on our webpage and sign up for project updates.” 

The public consultation events in February and March are an opportunity meet the project team and learn more about the plans. 

The events will take place on:

20th February (2.30–7pm) Halkirk – Ross Institute

21st February (2.30–7pm) Helmsdale – Bunilidh Social Club

22nd February (2.30–7pm) Dunbeath – Dunbeath Hall

23rd February (2.30–7pm) Golspie – Fountain Road Hall

27th February (3.30–7pm) Bonar Bridge – Community Hall

28th February (2.30–7pm) Ardross – Community Hall

1st March (2.30–7pm) Dingwall – Legion Hal

2nd March (2.30–7pm) Beauly – Kilmorack Hall

6th March (5–7pm) Virtual event* *Joining details available on website

The events are open-door drop-in sessions for anyone interested in learning more about the proposals.

Spittal– Loch Buidhe – Beauly 400kV Connection project is in the early stages of development, to find out more about the project and share your views to help shape the development of the project.