SSEN Transmission has lodged a planning application with The Highland Council for the Bingally 400/132kV substation, a crucial element in the upgrade of the existing Beauly to Denny overhead line (OHL).

The proposed upgrade will see the line operate at 400kV, increasing its capacity to transport renewable energy across Scotland and the UK.

The new substation, planned for the Fasnakyle area, south-east of Cannich near Tomich, will connect to the upgraded Beauly to Denny OHL. SSEN Transmission identified the site as the most suitable after considering both environmental and technical factors.

Prior to submitting the application, the transmission operator held a series of pre-application consultation events to gather feedback from the local community. These discussions informed the proposals, including measures to mitigate visual impact through landscaping and screening, a detailed plan to manage construction traffic, and initiatives to enhance local biodiversity.

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Steven Miller, Development Portfolio Manager at SSEN Transmission, emphasised the importance of the project, stating: "The Bingally substation is a key component of our proposals to fully upgrade the existing Beauly to Denny overhead line from 275kV to 400kV operation, supporting the delivery of 2030 offshore wind generation targets set by the UK and Scottish Governments."

He added: "In developing our proposals, we have sought to achieve the best balance from an environmental and technical perspective taking account of the views of the local community."

Miller also highlighted the broader benefits of the project: "Investing to upgrade our electricity transmission network is crucial if we are to achieve the country's energy security and clean power objectives, and it's also a major driver of jobs and economic activity locally and across the north of Scotland."

SSEN Transmission expressed gratitude to those who participated in the consultation process and said they look forward to working with The Highland Council and other stakeholders as the planning application progresses. The Beauly to Denny upgrade is a significant infrastructure project aimed at facilitating the connection of renewable energy sources, particularly offshore wind, to the national grid, supporting Scotland and the UK's ambitions for a net-zero energy system.