SSEN Transmission has welcomed Ofgem’s decision on Final Needs Case for its proposed Fort Augustus to Skye Reinforcement Project.
The grid operator is now waiting on the Scottish government’s determination of its Section 37 planning application and said it remains committed to work constructively with stakeholders to ensure the timely delivery of the project.
The existing 132kV overhead transmission line from Fort Augustus to Ardmore is the sole connection from the mainland electricity transmission system to Skye and the Western Isles and is essential for maintaining security of supply in the area.
Recent studies into the condition of the existing infrastructure indicated the section of overhead line between Quoich substation and Ardmore substation requires rebuilding and, upon completion of construction of the new line, the existing line removed.
As a result of an increase in renewable energy projects requesting access to the grid, there is a requirement to increase the capacity of the overhead line to allow renewables developments to connect.
SSEN Transmission’s managing director Rob McDonald said: “The existing Fort Augustus to Skye overhead line is fast reaching the end of its operational life, as demonstrated by two major faults in recent months which resulted in the temporary loss of power to over 20,000 customers along its route and in the Western Isles, which is supplied by two subsea cables from north Skye.
“Alongside the need to keep the lights on for homes and businesses along its route and in the Western Isles, the replacement line will also increase the capacity of the local electricity transmission network to enable the connection of new renewable electricity generation along its route.
“The need for this project is therefore beyond doubt and we welcome Ofgem’s final approval of need following its assessment of our robust Final Needs Case.”
In its Final Needs Case decision document, published on 4 August, Ofgem stated: “We are satisfied that there is sufficient evidence of a clear needs case for the Skye project on the basis that there is the need for asset intervention and that new generation has shown enough progress to warrant adding additional capacity to the Skye circuit.”