SSEN Transmission has welcomed the recent decisions by Highland Council's South Planning Committee, which have granted consent for three vital replacement substations and raised no objection to a key overhead line project in the Highlands.

These approvals mark significant progress for critical electricity infrastructure in the region.

The council committee has given consent for the replacement of existing substations at Deanie and Culligran in Glen Strathfarrar, and at Kilmorack. These substations, originally built in the 1960s, are essential for connecting associated hydroelectric generation assets to the electricity transmission network. Their replacement is crucial to ensure continued reliable connection to these hydroelectric schemes, maintain network reliability, and support security of supply as they reach the end of their operational life.

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In addition to these substation approvals, the committee raised no objection to SSEN Transmission's application under Section 37 of the Electricity Act for the Melgarve Cluster project. This overhead line is necessary to connect the Cloiche Wind Farm into the existing Melgarve 400/132kV Substation, facilitating the export of clean, homegrown electricity to the transmission network. This connection will play a vital role in enhancing energy security and contributing to net-zero targets. The application for the Melgarve Cluster will now proceed to Scottish Ministers for final determination.

Alison Hall, Director of Project Development for SSEN Transmission, commented on the positive outcomes: "We welcome these decisions, which are important for the continued resilience of local electricity supply, as well as contributing to the country's wider ambitions for clean power and energy security."

Ms Hall reiterated SSEN Transmission's commitment to local engagement. "In progressing all of our projects, we are committed to working constructively with local communities and businesses through the development and delivery phases, including to mitigate construction impacts, alongside maximising the significant economic and employment opportunities our investment programme presents."

SSEN Transmission is responsible for the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland, playing a crucial role in enabling the transition to net zero and ensuring a reliable power supply. The approvals highlight the ongoing investment in Scotland's energy infrastructure, designed to support both existing power generation and the integration of new renewable energy sources.