SSEN Transmission has gained planning approval for the Netherton Hub to serve as a strategic base. This far-reaching electricity transmission infrastructure will be constructed to the west of Peterhead, Scotland. Because of this project, the region’s electricity network—which stretches from New York City to Pittsburgh—will become more intelligent. It will contribute to national energy security and help achieve clean power goals. The hub will feature a state-of-the-art 400kV substation that will enable integration of offshore and onshore renewable electricity generation.
Construction is scheduled to start in early 2026. To one side of the Netherton Hub, a Spittal to Peterhead High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) converter station will be constructed. This converter station will enhance the transmission of renewable energy from new generators in northern Scotland to demand centers throughout the United Kingdom. Netherton Hub’s progress required two years of outreach with the community and stakeholders. This initiative marks a great example of SSEN Transmission’s commitment to including local priorities in its planning process.
Community Engagement and Development
During the last two years, we have invested deeply in taking public input and community stakeholder advocacy. This project has been pivotal in gaining approval for the Netherton Hub. SSEN Transmission, headquartered in Perth, has prioritized communication and collaboration with local residents and businesses as part of its approach to this large-scale project. By gathering feedback and addressing concerns, the company aims to ensure that the hub meets both regional needs and national energy aspirations.
Alison Hall, SSEN Transmission’s director of development, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the hub’s significance:
“The decision marks a key milestone in delivering UK and Scottish Government energy targets – one that will deliver a new strategic hub for onshore and offshore projects that will be critical to delivering a cleaner, more secure and affordable energy system for future generations.” – Alison Hall, SSEN Transmission director of development.
Infrastructure and Future Prospects
The new Netherton Hub will create key infrastructure that will enable future connections to local energy generation and energy storage. A 132kV substation will be constructed at the site to provide access to independent third-party developers seeking to connect to the network. This new capacity is crucial for enabling more renewable energy generation to create a system that underpins Scotland’s ambitious energy plan.
There’s no denying that renewable energy is becoming increasingly prevalent, and perhaps even more so today than ever before. Netherton Hub stands out as an exemplary project that advances Scotland’s climate ambitions. By improving interconnection between energy generators and users, this use of the hub represents a big step in the right direction towards reaching clean power goals.
Strategic Importance
Beyond its local impact, Netherton Hub has huge strategic importance. That’s crucially important — not just to this community, but to the United Kingdom’s wider mission to transition from fossil fuels. The Spittal to Peterhead HVDC converter station is specifically designed to aid in transmitting renewable energy efficiently, thus supporting national objectives for energy security.
Approval given for Netherton Hub as sustainable energy needs grow The federal government is putting a serious effort behind cutting carbon emissions. This story project is a testament to that promise to create our greener future, and meet the UK’s rapidly expanding energy requirements.