SSEN Transmission has welcomed the decision by Scottish Ministers to approve the Section 37 application for a new 132kV overhead line in the Highlands.

Forming a key part of the Melgarve Cluster project, the infrastructure features a new line spanning approximately 7km. Combined with underground cabling, this will link the Cloiche Wind Farm—situated roughly 11km southeast of Fort Augustus—to the existing Melgarve 400/132kV substation.

The project is designed to facilitate the transport of renewable electricity from the wind farm into the broader transmission network, contributing to the energy security and clean power targets of both Scotland and the UK. Detailed environmental assessments were utilised to inform the route, ensuring a balanced design aimed at reducing the impact on local land use and habitats.

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Following the granting of consent, work on the site is scheduled to commence in summer 2026.

Laura McWilliams, SSEN Transmission Project Director, said: "We're pleased to have secured Section 37 consent from Scottish Ministers, following a detailed development process that has sought to minimise impacts while delivering this important connection. The new double circuit 132kV overhead line will enable the efficient transfer of electricity from the Cloiche Wind Farm into the Melgarve substation, where it will feed into the wider transmission system delivering homegrown, clean power for homes and businesses. We're grateful to everyone who engaged with us throughout the development of this project, including those who attended our consultation events. That feedback has been central in shaping our design, and we will continue to work closely with the local community and other stakeholders as the project progresses."