Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), operating under licence as Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc, is set to hold a second series of consultation events later this month to seek views on the development of plans for transmission reinforcement works in North Argyll.

The existing transmission overhead lines in the area were constructed in the late 1950s and early 1960s to support connect hydro power stations and provide a more secure electricity supply to local communities.

The aim of the proposed reinforcement is to provide additional capacity for renewable generation projects seeking to connect and to improve the network's resilience.

The proposals involve construction of a new 275/132kV North Argyll substation in close proximity to the existing line, south of Cladich. Between Taynuilt and the new proposed substation, the existing line will be upgraded, either by replacing conductors (wires) on the existing steel towers or a completely new overhead line. The plans also involve a new 275kV overhead line between the proposed North Argyll substation and the existing Dalmally substation.

The project was first introduced to the public via a series of public consultation events in March this year. The second set of consultation events will seek views on the preferred route options and substation site options now identified, before more detailed design work and environmental studies get under way. As a responsible developer, SSEN is keen to receive feedback from a wide range of stakeholders which will inform the next stages of the project's development.

Commenting, SSEN Project Manager Jean Lewis said:

"We are very grateful for the feedback that local residents gave us following our initial consultation about this project in the spring. We're now ready to present more detail on the substation site options and the preferred overhead line route options that have been identified since."

"As the owner of the electricity transmission network in Argyll, we are required by our licence to provide the capacity that is needed in response to generators requesting a connection. We also have to ensure the network can continue to provide a secure electricity supply to local communities."

"We aim to engage openly throughout the development process so that our team's further work and, ultimately, our final proposals can be informed be local communities and a wide range of other stakeholders. Our goal is to assess and find a balance between environmental, technical and economic considerations."

The open consultation drop-in events will be held on:

  • Monday 24 October at Taynuilt Village Hall from 2pm to 7:30pm;
  • Tuesday 25 October at Kilchrenan Village Hall from 2pm to 7:30pm;
  • Wednesday 26 October at Portsonachan Village Hall from 2pm to 7:30pm; 
  • Thursday 27 October at Dalmally Community Centre from 2pm to 7:30pm.

For anyone who is unable to attend, information can be obtained by contacting SSEN Liaison Manager Kelly Scott at kelly.scottsse.com or on 07342 026270; or by visiting the project webpage: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/north-argyll.