After almost 30 months of construction, a new substation in Scotland has been energised by SSEN Transmission.
The site in Highland Perthshire will play a key role in reaching net zero.
Project teams from SSEN Transmission and its principal contractor Siemens BAM delivered the Kinardochy substation, three miles from Tummel Bridge.
The site will play a critical role in ensuring voltage limits on the transmission network remain stable and power flows can be efficiently managed, allowing for the connection of new renewables generation to the grid and helping to enable the transition to net zero emissions.
Built to an operating capacity of 275 kilovolts (kV), the substation has been designed so that it can be increased to 400kV in the future with minimal operational changes.
The new substation connects into the existing Beauly-Denny overhead line, which is set to be upgraded to a double-circuit 400kV wire as part of SSEN Transmission’s Pathway to 2030 programme – a £20bn programme of electricity transmission projects set to be carried out across the north of Scotland.
The project has been delivered following extensive engagement with the local community and stakeholder groups, working closely to help support local initiatives wherever possible.
Since construction began, teams have donated to local foodbanks in Pitlochry, planted native trees at Dun Coillich community woodland, donated spare road materials to improve access at the local sailing club, and contributed towards a new tent for the organisers of the Kinloch Rannoch Gathering.
The team is also making a £2000 contribution to this year’s Christmas lights display fund in the nearby village of Aberfeldy in a further show of support for residents.
SSEN Transmission project manager Muhammed Saeed Chaudhary said: “As guests in the area, this project would not have been possible without the support and understanding of the local community, and we’re so pleased we’ve been able to support a whole range of community projects and initiatives throughout the construction of Kinardochy.
“Reaching full energisation is a massive achievement, and can be attributed to the expertise, dedication and commitment from all of our contractors and delivery partners which has been invaluable throughout this project.”