SSEN Transmission has become the first company to sign the Highland Social Value Charter (HSVC), a significant milestone cementing the delivery of long-term socio-economic benefits across the Highlands as part of its major infrastructure upgrade programme.

The Charter, published by The Highland Council in June 2024, sets out a series of social value expectations for companies investing in renewable energy infrastructure within the region.

By signing the document, SSEN Transmission has committed to a detailed set of benefits linked to its planned £22 billion+ programme to upgrade the electricity grid in the north of Scotland. This includes a £6 billion investment in transmission projects across the Highland region.

The company's commitments will deliver massive benefits for local communities and the construction sector. These include:

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• Local Contracts: Anticipated £1.8 billion of contracts to be awarded to Highland-based businesses.

• Job Creation: Supporting over 2,200 jobs in the Highland region, with an average salary of £55,000.

• Housing: Contributing to the development of over 500 permanent homes in the Highland Council area, with 60% unlocking affordable/social housing stock, backed by over £100 million investment in Highland housing.

• Infrastructure: Over £200 million investment on roads and bridges, supporting the Highland Investment Plan.

• Biodiversity: Achieving a 10% net gain in biodiversity and ensuring no net loss of woodland on all new projects.

• Community Funding: Unlocking £62 million of community investment through local and regional funds.

Sandy Mactaggart, Director of Offshore Delivery at SSEN Transmission, signed the document and commented: "This is a landmark moment in ensuring that investment in a modern electricity grid... will underpin the future Highland economy for decades to come and goes hand in hand with building stronger communities."

The Leader of The Highland Council, Councillor Raymond Bremner, said SSEN Transmission's leadership "sets a strong example and will help unlock economic and social benefits for communities across the Highlands, as well as positioning us as the heartland of major infrastructure and green energy development."

The company expects to announce the first of its Highland housing legacy projects in the coming days, following recent announcements in the Western Isles and Angus.