SSEN Transmission has announced the appointment of three independent panel members to oversee applications for its £2 million regional community benefit fund, which was launched last month.

The fund, which aims to support skills development, cultural projects, and alleviate fuel poverty in communities across the north of Scotland, has already garnered significant interest.

This initiative is part of a broader £100 million commitment to support communities in the region through the largest electricity infrastructure program in the north of Scotland.

The appointed panel members will play a crucial role in evaluating and awarding grants to eligible organisations.

The independent panel members, who will work alongside the fund's inaugural Chair Peter Peacock, are:

Louisa Macdonell – Scotland Director for the charity Business in the Community and a Just Transition Commissioner for Scotland. Louisa is entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of Edinburgh Business School and supports small business owners especially those run by women, communities and social enterprises. She also sits on the board of Social Investment Scotland.

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Nicholas Gubbins – founding Chief Executive of Community Energy Scotland, Nicholas has previously served as Head of Community Regeneration at Highlands and Islands Enterprise and has held various roles including in the environmental, community development and energy sectors.

Lucy Conway – a volunteer Director of the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust, Lucy has extensive experience in community development and culture having successfully managed funds targeted at economic and social development, health and wellbeing, and innovation in rural communities.

Christianna Logan, SSEN Transmission's Director of Customers and Stakeholders, is the remaining member of the panel. Grants are available from a minimum amount of £40,000 up to £500,000, with the deadline for applications Friday 22 November.

Commenting on the appointment of the panel members, the fund's inaugural Chair Peter Peacock, said: "I am delighted to announce the appointment of these talented individuals, each of whom are united in their vision to deliver genuine support to communities across the north of Scotland and who have a strong record in supporting communities and local people.

"We've had a great initial response to the launch of the fund, which will allow charities and community organisations to deliver transformational impact and improve places and the lives of people.

"But we're keen to hear more good ideas that will help with skills and employability, create stronger places and further enrich their culture, and help alleviate fuel poverty.

"We encourage anyone with ideas that will deliver positive benefits in their community to apply ahead of our final deadline of 22 November and avoid missing out."