SSEN Transmission has secured necessary planning consent from Scottish Ministers for the reconductoring of the overhead transmission line running between Tealing in Angus and Westfield in Fife. The project, which is a crucial part of Scotland's energy transition infrastructure, marks a significant step forward in increasing network capacity.

The construction project involves uprating approximately 37 kilometres of the existing 275kV transmission line from the Tealing substation down to the connection boundary with SP Energy Networks south of Newburgh. The line will be uprated to operate at 400kV, substantially boosting capacity to facilitate the increasing volume of low-carbon electricity generation.

The main construction work is scheduled to begin in 2026. The scope of the work includes:

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• Conductor Replacement: Replacing all existing overhead conductors, fittings, and insulators along the current tower route.

• Structural Reinforcement: Carrying out foundation and steel structure reinforcements to ensure the long-term resilience of the line.

• Tower Replacement: Potential replacement of a single existing tower.

The project builds on the recently consented Alyth to Tealing reconductoring project, reinforcing momentum behind SSEN Transmission's Pathway to 2030 investment programme, which is investing at least £22 billion in upgrading Scotland's electricity infrastructure.

Local contractors, including Dundee Plant, have already been engaged during the development phases. Principal contractor Balfour Beatty intends to invite local suppliers to tender for opportunities during the construction phase, anticipating further economic benefits for the area. The Tealing-Westfield project is also expected to generate £7 million, 400 thousand ($7.4m) in community benefit funding.

Gregor Stirton, Project Manager at SSEN Transmission, welcomed the consent:

"We're pleased to receive consent for the Tealing to Westfield overhead line upgrade - a vital infrastructure project that will help deliver Scotland's clean energy ambitions and enhance national energy security.

"This approval builds on the recent Alyth to Tealing consent and reflects the importance of our Pathway to 2030 programme in unlocking Scotland's clean power potential."