SSEN Transmission has confirmed its intention to submit a consent application for the Beauly – Peterhead 400kV overhead line project to the Scottish Government's Energy Consents Unit (ECU).

The submission, expected by Friday, 3 October, marks a significant milestone for the project, which is a key part of the company's "Pathway to 2030" investment programme.

This programme is SSEN Transmission's largest ever private investment, with at least £22 billion expected to be invested by March 2031. The Beauly – Peterhead project has been independently assessed and approved by the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and Ofgem. It is required to enable the low-carbon electricity generation needed to meet UK and Scottish clean power and energy security targets.

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The forthcoming application is the culmination of one of the north of Scotland's most extensive public consultation exercises, with over 50 events held since 2022. The feedback gathered from the community and stakeholders directly influenced changes to the proposed route. Adjustments were made to tower positions to increase distance from residential properties and cultural assets, while the route was realigned to avoid disturbance to the public water supply.

The proposed 186km overhead line is expected to deliver more than £35m of community benefit funding. The overall £22bn investment programme could support up to 17,500 jobs and add up to £7bn to the Scottish economy, according to an independent analysis by BiGGAR Economics. SSEN Transmission is also committed to supporting the development of at least 1,000 new homes in the north of Scotland to provide a lasting legacy for communities that will host construction workers.

The Scottish Government is expected to determine the consent application within 52 weeks, in line with its new process for priority applications.