SP Energy Networks has launched a public consultation inviting residents in Fife to share their opinions on proposals for a new electricity substation near Glenrothes.

The proposed "Conland" substation is a key component of the wider Tealing-Kincardine Upgrade Project (TKUP), which aims to increase the voltage of existing overhead power lines in Fife from 275kV to 400kV. This upgrade is intended to strengthen the electricity transmission network to accommodate the increasing amount of clean, green energy being generated in Scotland and ensure it can be efficiently delivered to homes, schools, and businesses.

SP Energy Networks has identified a preferred site for the new substation to the north-west of Glenrothes, on land adjacent to Pitkevy Farm and close to the current overhead line route.

Local residents are encouraged to attend upcoming public exhibitions to view the plans in detail, meet the project team, and ask any questions:

• Monday 28 April, 2pm to 7pm: Newton of Falkland Village Hall, Main Street, Newton of Falkland, Cupar, KY15 7QX

• Tuesday 29 April, 2pm to 7pm: Balgeddie House Hotel, Balgeddie Way, Glenrothes, KY6 3QA

The consultation period will run from Monday 28 April to Friday 23 May, during which time members of the public can submit their comments.

The proposed substation development will occupy a site larger than 100 by 100 metres and will house plant and switch gear, along with two electricity transformers. The plans also include site access, parking, lay-down areas, lighting, and three-metre-high palisade security fencing.

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Modifications will also be necessary to the existing adjacent overhead line routes to connect them to the new substation. This will involve the temporary installation of masts during construction while one existing tower is removed and replaced with two new ones, including a 'terminal tower' for connection to the substation. Additionally, wires and insulators between Westfield and Falkland will be replaced to increase the line's capacity from 275kV to 400kV, and a new span of overhead line will connect into the Longannet substation.

In addition to the public drop-in events, all project documents, including an online feedback form, are available on the project website: Tealing to Kincardine Upgrade Project - SP Energy Networks.

A Freephone number (0800 470 2376) is available for inquiries or to request a personal call back from the project team. Members of the public can also request a paper feedback form and a Freepost envelope for easy return.

Mike Inglis, Project Manager at SP Energy Networks, stated: “The proposed new Conland substation near Glenrothes is part of a wider programme of investment across the east of Scotland vital to strengthening the UK’s electricity transmission network. It helps improve energy security and contributes towards Scotland’s, and the rest of the UK’s, net zero targets. We are upgrading and adding new infrastructure into the network in Fife, and beyond and we want to hear from local residents about our plans to help us develop these proposals further. Engaging with local communities is essential for us so we hope that people will get in touch; either by attending the public exhibitions in the area, or by contacting us directly.”

Following this initial consultation phase, SP Energy Networks will develop detailed designs for the substation, including the locations of buildings, access routes, and working areas. A report summarising the feedback received and how it has influenced the proposals will be published. A detailed Environmental Impact Assessment will also be conducted, and further consultation will take place before final proposals are submitted as planning applications to Fife Council under the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (as amended) and to the Scottish Government Energy Consents Unit under Section 37 of the Electricity Act 1989 for the overhead line modifications. At this stage, public comments are not formal representations to the planning authority, with opportunities for formal representations arising during future application stages.

The proposed Conland substation will include:

• An area for the substation platform.

• Two 400/275kV transformers.

• Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) for circuit connections.

• An access track from the public road suitable for construction vehicles.

• Internal access routes and vehicle parking.

• Drainage and landscaping.

• New 3m steel palisade and internal fencing around the live compound for safety and security.