SSEN Transmission has welcomed the decision by Scottish Ministers to grant Section 37 consent for the crucial reconductoring project between Alyth in Perth & Kinross and Tealing in Angus.

This upgrade is a major step in reinforcing the north of Scotland's electricity network to accommodate the continued growth of low-carbon electricity generation.

The positive consent allows the existing overhead lines, insulators, and fittings between Alyth and Tealing to be upgraded from to operate at . Reconductoring involves replacing the components that carry electricity between existing towers—the overhead conductors and insulators—with newer, more efficient versions to significantly increase the line's capacity.

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The project will utilise all existing towers between the Alyth and Tealing substations. While works will be undertaken to reinforce existing tower foundations and steel structures, no additional towers will be constructed as part of this upgrade.

Receiving Section 37 consent marks a major milestone for the project, which is part of SSEN Transmission's ambitious Pathway to 2030 investment programme. Enabling works are expected to begin in 2026, with the reconductoring due to get underway in 2028.

The project is also expected to generate more than £2.8 million in community benefit funding, with further details on access to this support to follow in the coming months.

Rob McDonald, Managing Director at SSEN Transmission, commented: "We're delighted to receive consent for the Alyth to Tealing overhead line project. As one of the early approvals under our Pathway to investment programme, it reflects the critical role these infrastructure upgrades play in enabling Scotland's transition to net zero and meeting ambitious clean energy targets. We're pleased that the project is also set to deliver over £2.8m in community benefit funding, a significant investment in local areas."