Europe | March 16, 2022

Upgrades planned for Argyll transmission network

UK: SSEN Transmission has submitted to the energy regulator, Ofgem, proposals to reinforce the Argyll transmission network to 275 kV operation.

 

SSEN Transmission

Image source: SSE

UK: SSEN Transmission has submitted to the energy regulator, Ofgem, proposals to reinforce the Argyll transmission network from 132 kV to 275 kV operation.

At an estimated cost of around $522 M (£400 M), this investment is being taken forward as part of the SSE Group’s Net Zero Acceleration Programme, which will see $116.3 B (£12.5 B) invested in the five years to 2026.

The Argyll 275 kV strategy is required to support the connection of several new renewable electricity generation schemes across Argyll and to transport that power to areas of demand across Scotland and beyond. It will support the connection of at least 560 MW of new renewable electricity generation, enough to power more than 500,000 homes.

The Argyll 275 kV strategy consists of the following five main components:

  • A new substation at Creag Dhubh connecting to SP Transmission’s existing Dalmally-Windyhill transmission line via around 14 km of new overhead transmission circuits;
  • Around 10 km of new overhead transmission circuits connecting Creag Dhubh substation to the existing Inveraray-Crossaig circuits;
  • The replacement of existing substations at An Suidhe and Crarae along the route of the Inveraray-Crossaig line;
  • Establishing a new substation at Craig Murrail and relocation of the Port Ann Grid Supply Point to this site; and
  • Establishing a new substation in the vicinity of the existing Crossaig substation.

“With the existing network in Argyll close to capacity, the project is essential to increase the operational capacity of the Argyll transmission network, supporting the connection of new renewable electricity generation in the area and to transport that power to areas of demand,” says Rob McDonald, Managing Director of SSEN Transmission.

 

Source: SSE