Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has secured planning consent for the upgrade and refurbishment of its Transmission substation at Fort Augustus at a special meeting of the Highland Council on 23rd October.
The project is required to connect new electricity generation projects but will also help to support increased security of supply in the local area. The main elements of the project comprise of:
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Expansion of the existing substation footprint
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Construction of three new buildings that will house electrical switchgear
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The construction and connection of four new transformers and reactor units
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Construction of new, overhead aluminium structures (busbars) and underground connections within the expanded substation footprint
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The relocation and removal of existing substation equipment
SSEN's Lead Project Manager, Archie Munro, said:
"We welcome Highland Council's planning approval for the Fort Augustus Substation Reinforcement project, enabling the connection of further renewables' development in the Scottish Highlands whilst also strengthening security of supply for the rural communities we serve."
"We would particularly like to thank the local community and wider stakeholders that have consulted with us and provided feedback throughout the development process and as we worked to refine the final planning submission. Main contract works for the substation works are expected to commence in early Spring 2018 following discharge of our planning conditions, and we look forward to ongoing engagement with our host communities as plans for construction progress."
As part of its ongoing commitment to keeping the local communities updated on the progress of its refurbishment plans, SSEN's Community Liaison Group will be hosting its next meeting at The Lovat Hotel on November 14, with more sessions planned for January 2019, March 2019 and May 2019.