SSEN Transmission has begun the process of notifying stakeholders of its intention to submit its Section 37 consent application for the proposed Spittal - Loch Buidhe - Beauly 400kV overhead line project. The application is expected to be submitted within the next two weeks.

The project is a key component of SSEN Transmission's 'Pathway to 2030' investment programme, which is projected to invest at least £22bn in the period to March 2031. This is one of the largest private investment programmes in Scotland and is essential for enabling the low-carbon electricity needed to meet UK and Scottish clean power targets.

The forthcoming submission follows one of the most extensive public consultations ever seen in the north of Scotland, with over 50 events held since 2022. The proposed new overhead line, which spans 173km, also includes three new substations and HVDC Convertor Stations at Spittal and Beauly.

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Alison Hall, Director of Development for SSEN Transmission, said: "Investing to upgrade our electricity transmission network is a major driver of jobs and economic activity locally and nationally, including our ambitious housing legacy commitments, community benefit funding proposals and workforce expansion plans."

An independent economic analysis by BiGGAR Economics forecasts that the full £31.7bn investment programme could support up to 17,500 jobs in Scotland and add up to £7bn in value to the Scottish economy.

The programme is also expected to deliver over £100m of community benefit funding across the north of Scotland, with the Spittal – Loch Buidhe – Beauly line alone expected to provide around £35m. Additionally, SSEN Transmission plans to support the development of at least 1,000 new homes across the north of Scotland, 400 of which are in the Highlands, to serve as a legacy for local communities.

Following the submission, the Scottish Government will undertake a period of public consultation, with a consent decision expected within 52 weeks.