SSEN Transmission has announced the opening of the second round of its Regional Community Benefit Fund, making a share of £2 million available to organisations across the north of Scotland.

The funding will support projects that aid skills development, support the culture of the region, or help to alleviate fuel poverty.

This fund is part of a larger pot of £10 million associated with electricity transmission projects that are already in delivery.

SSEN Transmission's 'Pathway to 2030' projects are expected to generate more than £100m in community benefit funding in the future.

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The fund, which is the first of its kind for investment in electricity transmission infrastructure, will accept applications from 20 August until 12pm on 19 November. Successful applicants can receive a minimum of £40,000 and a maximum of £500,000. Awards are expected to be made in February 2026.

The Regional Fund is overseen by an independent panel, chaired by former Scottish government minister and convener of Highland Council, Peter Peacock.

Mr Peacock said he was "excited to see what our second round of funding applications brings forward," and encouraged projects that can make a "real and lasting difference and have impact across communities."

The Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, Gillian Martin MSP, urged organisations with projects in the north of Scotland to apply.

The Minister for Energy Consumers in the UK Government, Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, also commented on the fund, stating it would support community projects while helping the region "lead the way in clean energy."