The network division of SSE has secured planning consent from the Highland Council to upgrade and refurbish a substation at Fort Augustus in Scotland.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks said the refurbishment is needed to connect new electricity generation and increase security of supply in the local area.
The work will include increasing the existing footprint of the substation, construction of three new structures to house electrical switchgear and building and connecting four new transformers and reactor units.
New overhead aluminium structures called busbars and underground connections will also be added, as well as relocation and removal of existing substation equipment.
SSEN 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.”