SSEN Transmission has formally submitted its marine cable licence application for the Spittal to Peterhead High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) link, a pivotal component of the company's £20 billion "Pathway to 2030" investment programme in the north of Scotland. This submission follows two years of intensive development and offshore marine surveying, underpinned by extensive engagement with marine users, other offshore developers, and key stakeholders. This engagement included two face-to-face marine consultation rounds, drawing over 240 attendees across 13 events in 2023 and 2024.

The "Pathway to 2030" programme represents one of the largest infrastructure investments in the north of Scotland in decades. Last December, SSEN Transmission published plans projecting that this programme could support up to 8,400 jobs across the region.

David Inge, SSEN Transmission's Offshore Development Portfolio Manager, highlighted the broader impact of the project: "Upgrading our electricity transmission network is key to delivering clean, secure energy for Scotland and the UK. However, it's not just about national energy goals - it's about delivering real benefits to local communities. From creating jobs and supporting local economies. to funding initiatives through our Community Benefit Fund, we're proud to invest in the places we serve. These efforts help build a stronger, more resilient, and more connected future for generations to come."

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Mr Inge also emphasised the collaborative approach taken during the application process. "In preparing our application, we've worked closely with local communities - including marine stakeholders - and collaborated with other third-party developers and asset owners across Caithness and Aberdeenshire," he said. "We would like to thank all those who provided feedback as part of our pre-application consultation events, which have been so valuable in helping to guide and shape our proposals. We now look forward to working with the Marine Directorate Licensing Operations Team and stakeholders as part of the determination process."

The proposed Spittal to Peterhead HVDC link will connect to the Netherton Hub in Aberdeenshire, another critical element of SSEN Transmission's "Pathway to 2030" plans. A planning application for the Netherton Hub is currently under consideration by Aberdeenshire Council. If approved, the Netherton Hub facility will encompass:

• A 400kV and 132kV substation to support future offshore and onshore electricity connections.

• The Spittal to Peterhead HVDC converter station, designed to facilitate the transmission of renewable energy from new generators in the north of Scotland to demand centres across the UK.

• The Eastern Green Link 3 HVDC converter station, which will support the transmission of renewable energy from Scottish generators to Norfolk and other southern demand centres.

• An additional transmission hall, providing capacity for further infrastructure to future-proof the expanding network.

• A dedicated spares warehouse and operations base.