Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 9, SSEN Transmission, based in Perth and responsible for managing the electricity transmission network in northern Scotland, is seeking approval for a new 107-mile overhead power line connecting Spittal, Loch Buidhe, and Beauly. This development forms a central part of the company’s ‘Pathway to 2030’ investment initiative, designed to enhance the capacity of the transmission system for low-carbon electricity.

The project is expected to involve an investment of at least £22 billion by March 2031, potentially reaching up to £31.7 billion. It is one of the largest private infrastructure investments in Scotland and is forecast to support job creation and economic development across the country.

The proposal has received independent approval from both the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and the energy regulator, Ofgem. However, it has also drawn opposition due to concerns over the visual and environmental impact of the super-pylons and associated infrastructure across the Highlands and areas extending toward Peterhead.

SSEN Transmission has emphasized its commitment to stakeholder engagement and environmental considerations. More than 50 public consultations and meetings were held to help shape the project, which includes three new substations near Spittal (Banniskirk), Loch Buidhe (Carnaig), and Beauly (Fanellan). New HVDC converter stations are also planned at Banniskirk and Fanellan, required for the Spittal–Peterhead and Western Isles–Beauly HVDC subsea connections.

The company said it has worked to minimize environmental and community impacts throughout the planning stage, aligning with regulatory and legislative obligations. This includes efforts to reduce proximity to residential properties and protect key cultural and environmental assets along the route.

Alison Hall, SSEN Transmission’s Director of Development, stated: “Throughout the development of the project we have undertaken one of the most extensive public consultations the north of Scotland has ever seen, and we would like to thank all stakeholders who have worked with our teams to provide constructive feedback which has been instrumental in helping shape our proposals.”

She added: “We now look forward to the Scottish Government’s timely determination of this critical national infrastructure development, in line with its new 52-week determination process for priority applications for electricity transmission infrastructure.”

An economic report by BiGGAR Economics projects that the total £31.7 billion investment could support up to 17,500 jobs across Scotland, including 8,400 in the north. The overall contribution to the economy is estimated at £7 billion, with £3 billion of that expected in northern regions. Around £100 million in community benefit funding is projected, with approximately £35 million attributed to the proposed overhead line.

The project is also expected to support the construction of over 1,000 homes in northern Scotland, including 400 in the Highlands. SSEN Transmission’s workforce has grown from 400 in 2019 to over 2,500, with new operational depots planned, including one in Caithness that will support 20 permanent roles.

The Scottish Government will conduct a public consultation before reaching a decision within the expected 52-week timeframe.