SSEN Transmission has published its final report on consultation for a proposed new 400kV overhead line in Scotland.
The new overhead electricity transmission line – the need for which has been approved by the National Energy System Operator (NESO) and energy regulator, Ofgem – will run from Kintore, in Aberdeenshire, to Tealing in Angus.
SSEN Transmission’s report confirms the final overhead line alignment being taken forward to Section 37 Consent submission, and details the changes made in response to community and stakeholder feedback.
The Kintore to Tealing 400kV project forms a key part of the Perth-based company’s plans to upgrade the transmission network across the north of Scotland and is one of a series of projects being taken forward through the £20bn Pathway to 2030 investment programme.
The aim of Pathway to 2030 is to deliver high-voltage, clean renewable power for connection to homes and businesses across the UK, supporting Scotland and the UK’s energy security and clean power ambitions.
SSEN Transmission’s report provides a summary of the feedback received in response to proposals for the overhead line, how this has been considered, and confirmation of final overhead line alignment.
To date, SSEN Transmission have held three rounds of public consultation events in relation to the proposed overhead line since May 2023, with a total of 29 in-person events.
The report outlines the latest changes made to minimise impact in response to community and other stakeholder feedback, which will be presented by the project team at public engagement events taking place in February and March 2025.
In December 2023, following feedback from the public, SSEN Transmission confirmed it was no longer progressing plans to develop a new substation at Fiddes in the Mearns, relocating this substation to a new site, Hurlie, in Fetteresso Forest.
At the same time, the preferred route in two sections of the line, between Forfar and Brechin; and between the River Dee and Kintore, were changed in direct response to feedback received from the first consultation round.
Since then, further rounds of consultation have led to more changes being made to the overhead line alignments, including new alignments developed around Drumoak and Echt, in Aberdeenshire; the progression of an alternative alignment around Schoolhill, Aberdeenshire; and new alignments developed around Careston, Angus.
All project changes have been made to reduce impacts to local communities and the environment, SSEN Transmission said.
On Tuesday 4 February, the company will host a webinar providing an overview of the publication of reports on consultations for all three of the proposed 400kV overhead line projects being delivered as part of the Pathway to 2030 programme, including Kintore to Tealing.
Commenting on the publication of the final report, senior development project manager Calum Grant said: “We have carried out what we believe to be one of the biggest public consultation exercises with local communities and other stakeholders, throughout the development of this project, that this area has ever seen.
“We would like to thank all those who have taken the time to provide the constructive feedback that has helped to shape our proposals.”
He added: “Upgrading the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland is critical if we are to deliver the country’s energy security and clean power goals, and the work to do that presents a major boost for jobs and economic growth locally and across the north of Scotland.
“In February and March, we’ll be hosting another series of public engagement events where we will present our final alignment plans for the development of this critical national infrastructure.”