SSEN Transmission has received Section 37 consent under the Electricity Act from the Scottish Ministers. We’ll join Transnet on their ambitious reconstruction project of a 132kV overhead line in Dunoon, Scotland. This $7 billion transformational project is intended to replace the existing, aging infrastructure inherited from the 1970s. In so doing, it will make the local electricity network more resilient and contribute to wider energy security objectives.
The planned project includes the construction of 77 new steel lattice towers, ranging in height from 23 to 39 meters. We’ll deploy these towers in a structured manner where towers won’t be more than 230 meters apart. This will allow us to remove about 18 km of double-circuit overhead lines in exchange. The new lines will run from Dunoon Substation, west along the path of the current undersea cable, to the location where the line crosses Loch Long.
Aiming for Modernization and Sustainability
SSEN Transmission’s initiative is a sign of real leadership toward providing the sort of smart, efficient, environmentally-conscious transmission grid that we all want and need. By replacing outdated electrical infrastructure, the project aims to futureproof the transmission network in Argyll and Bute, ensuring reliability and sustainability for years to come.
Laura McWilliams, project director for SSEN Transmission, said the project would play a crucial role in connecting local communities. She stated,
“This is a welcome step forward for our transmission network locally and throughout our network area in Scotland.”
This renovation addresses the need for improvements to our existing infrastructure. It further sets SSEN Transmission up to meet its clean power targets and increase the resilience of the whole network.
Community Engagement and Economic Opportunities
As the project transitions into its delivery phase, SSEN Transmission is dedicated to fostering positive relationships with local communities and businesses. The company is devoted to minimizing construction’s footprint. Simultaneously, it hopes to leverage and maximize all the economic opportunities this unprecedented investment will bring to their region.
Such proactive engagement is expected to alleviate concerns and ensure that the benefits of the project extend beyond infrastructure improvements.
“As we now move to the delivery phase of the project, we are committed to working constructively with local communities and businesses to minimise and mitigate construction impacts, alongside maximising the economic opportunities this investment will bring.”
Awarding of Section 37 consent by the Scottish Government provides an important step forward for SSEN Transmission. It unlocks new, multimodal funding potentially enabling game-changing upgrades to the networks that keep our metros moving—including safety improvements and climate commitments. The renewed overhead line infrastructure is built to accommodate today’s electric energy needs. It will be part of ensuring Dunoon and its surrounding areas can meet their future energy needs.
The Path Forward
The grant of Section 37 consent by the Scottish Government marks a crucial milestone for SSEN Transmission. It paves the way for significant upgrades that will enhance local network resilience while contributing to broader environmental goals. The reconstructed overhead line infrastructure promises not only to serve current demands but also to support future energy needs in Dunoon and surrounding areas.