A project to install a new 58 km, 132 kV overhead power line between Harris and Stornoway has achieved a milestone believed to be a UK first.

By using a specialised heavy-lift drone to install bond rope for conductor work in a single flight, the team has significantly accelerated construction while reducing the environmental impact on sensitive local habitats.

The method utilises a DJI FlyCart 30 drone from heliguy™, integrated with advanced systems from Aureos Energy Ltd. This setup efficiently installs high-capacity pilot ropes which are then used to pull the conductor directly, allowing for immediate installation. This approach protects fragile peatlands on Lewis by reducing the need for vehicles and personnel on challenging terrain, and it has successfully shortened installation times from days to mere hours.

The new infrastructure replaces a line dating back to 1990 and is designed to strengthen energy security and improve network resilience across the Western Isles. Half of the new line is expected to be energised in the coming months, with full energisation scheduled for later this year.

Andrew Ewing, Project Manager for SSEN Transmission, said: "Using drone technology for conductor installation has been a game changer for this project. By streamlining this stage of construction, we're able to deliver the new line much more quickly, while limiting the need for vehicles and personnel to cross some of the most UK's most sensitive peatland.

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"Crucially, the new line will replace infrastructure that has been in place since 1990, strengthening the network and improving the reliability of power supplies for homes and businesses across the Western Isles. Thanks to this technology, work that once took days can now be completed in hours – meaning local communities will feel the benefits of this upgraded, more resilient network sooner. It demonstrates how smart, modern technology is helping us bring a more resilient electricity network to the Western Isles as swiftly and sustainably as possible."

Gordon Cranston, Aureos Energy's Head of Drone Services – Transmission, added:

"At Aureos, we are committed to advancing the construction industry through innovation and the strategic use of technology. We would like to express our gratitude to our client, SSEN Transmission, for their proactive approach in embracing new technologies to enhance construction practices. Their support for innovation has been crucial in driving our collective progress.

"Our collaboration with heliguy has played a significant role in navigating regulatory frameworks, and we appreciate the mutually beneficial partnership that has allowed us to pursue this innovative endeavour. We are optimistic about the transformative potential of heavy-lift drones to enhance safety and efficiency in construction. Together with our valued partners and clients, we aim to establish new standards for the industry that will benefit all stakeholders."

Ruairi Hardman, Business Development Manager at heliguy™, commented:

"Aureos Energy's success with the FlyCart 30 reflects years of close collaboration – consultancy, supply, training, and shared development. It shows how powerful a long-term drone partnership can be. By growing its capability step-by-step, Aureos is delivering groundbreaking work. It is a real success story and shows what's possible when you have a drone partner that can provide continuity, expertise, and the scale to match your ambitions."