Overview
Status: Construction Phase
We are investing in Alyth substation to strengthen the electricity transmission network and support the continued transition to a cleaner, more secure energy system.
There are currently two separate packages of work taking place or being developed at the site:
- 400kV upgrade: work is under way to upgrade the existing substation from 275kV to 400kV operation.
- Proposed substation extension: we are developing separate proposals to extend the existing substation site and install new equipment to support the stability and future operation of the transmission network.
You can find out more about each project below.
The 400kV Upgrade
About the Project
Alyth substation was energised at 275kV in February 2024. The substation was designed and constructed with the capability to operate at 400kV, and we are now carrying out the work required to upgrade it to 400kV operation.
The work forms part of our wider East Coast 400kV Upgrade, which is reinforcing the transmission network on the east coast of Scotland.
The existing transmission network between Kintore, Fetteresso, Alyth and Kincardine currently limits the amount of electricity that can be transported through this part of the network. Operating these circuits at 400kV will increase their capacity and help accommodate the growing amount of renewable electricity connecting to the transmission system.
What Are We Doing?
The project will transition Alyth substation from 275kV to 400kV operation.
The works include upgrading the existing Gas Insulated Switchgear to full 400kV operation, installing two 400/275kV transformers, and completing associated protection, control and equipment upgrades.
Why is the Upgrade Needed?
The 400kV upgrade forms part of the wider reinforcement of the East Coast transmission network.
Strengthening this part of the network will increase its capacity and resilience, helping transport electricity generated from renewable sources across Scotland and supporting the continued transition to a cleaner energy system.
The Proposed Substation Extension
About Our Proposals
Alongside the 400kV upgrade, we are developing separate proposals to extend Alyth substation. These proposals are being progressed separately from the 400kV upgrade works already taking place at the site.
The proposed development is required to provide additional voltage control capability at Alyth as the transmission network develops.
What Are Ee Proposing?
Our current proposals include:
- extending the existing substation site by approximately 130m by 100m to the south-west
- installing a new voltage support facility known as a Static Synchronous Compensator, or STATCOM
- installing associated electrical equipment
- a short section of underground cable connecting the new facility to the substation extension
- access, drainage, landscaping and other infrastructure required to construct and operate the development.
A STATCOM is specialist electrical equipment which helps us manage voltage and maintain the stability of the electricity transmission network.
Why is the Extension Needed?
As the transmission network develops, additional equipment is required at Alyth to help maintain network performance and provide enhanced voltage control.
Our network studies have identified a need for additional reactive compensation equipment in the Alyth area. The proposed STATCOM would provide this additional voltage control capability.
Have Your Say on Our Proposals
Our consultation on the proposed Alyth substation extension is now open, with feedback invited until 24 November 2026.
We want to hear from local communities and other interested parties as we develop our proposals.
Our first pre-application consultation event will take place:
Date: Tuesday 27 October 2026
Time: 2pm to 7pm
Location: Alyth Town Hall, Albert Street, Alyth, PH11 8AX
You can drop in at any time during the event to meet the project team, find out more about our proposals, ask questions and provide feedback.
Live Osprey Webcam
Ospreys have nested near Alyth for many years.
Historically, they nested on a 275kV transmission tower forming part of the east coast transmission network. A dedicated 25-metre osprey nesting tower and two nearby resting perches were erected in March 2014 and have since been successfully used by the ospreys.
Community Engagement
Throughout the life of our projects, we aim to work positively with local communities and keep people informed about what we are doing. This is particularly important when we are developing a proposal and we want to understand what local people think about our plans.
We endeavour to take the time to discuss proposals with local community councils, encourage engagement from the wider community and listen to the feedback we receive.
We will do our best to answer any questions and address issues or concerns that are raised with us.
When our project progresses into construction, we will continue working closely with the local community to ensure that our work has as little impact on the lives of those living and working in the area and as many long term positive effects as possible.
How we’re embracing artificial intelligence (AI)
We intend to use AI to assist our experienced teams in the analysis of your feedback, so we can categorise key points raised more quickly. You can learn more about how we’re utilising AI on this dedicated web page.
Project Updates
Featured updates
Featured updates for this project
Upcoming Consultation Event
We are holding our first of 2 Pre-Application Consultation (PAC) events on Tuesday 27 October between 2-7pm at Alyth Town Hall, Albert Street, Alyth, PH11 8AX to share our proposals for works at the existing Alyth substation.
The proposals include:
An extension to the existing substation. A new voltage support facility, known as a Static Synchronous Compensator, or STATCOM and a short section of underground cable connecting the new STATCOM facility to the substation extension
Project updates
All updates for this project
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Upcoming Consultation Event
We are holding our first of 2 Pre-Application Consultation (PAC) events to share our proposals for works at the existing Alyth substation.
The proposals include:
- an extension to the existing substation by approximately 130m by 100m
- a new voltage support facility, known as a Static Synchronous Compensator, or STATCOM
- a short section of underground cable connecting the new STATCOM facility to the substation extension
Our project team will be available to explain the proposals, answer your questions and hear your views.
The event details are as follows:
Date: Tuesday 27 October
Time: 2pm to 7pm
Location: Alyth Town Hall, Albert Street, Alyth, PH11 8AX
The event is open to everyone and you can drop in at any time between 2pm and 7pm. We encourage all interested parties to come along, speak with the team and share your views.
You can also take part in our consultation online. Visit our virtual consultation room to explore the information being presented at our public event, or use our interactive map to take a closer look at the proposed development and its location. -
Upcoming Transformer Movements
As part of our work to upgrade the substation to 400kV, two transformers will be transported from Blackhillock substation in Keith to Alyth substation in Perthshire.
Key dates
- 26 August 2026 - Transformer movement from Blackhillock substation to Buckie Harbour - Local communities may see slow-moving escorted convoys and short rolling traffic holds on sections of the A96, A98 and A942.
- From 7 September 2026 - First transformer expected to arrive at Alyth substation following onward transport from Dundee Port. The route includes sections of the A92, A972, A90 and A94.
All movements remain subject to final approvals and weather conditions. They will be undertaken under Special Order legislation and accompanied by a Police Scotland escort.
Communities may see temporary traffic management measures, and short traffic holds to allow the transformer to pass safely. -
SSEN Transmission publishes new economic analysis highlighting transformative growth potential of £29bn grid investment programme
We have today published a new economic report setting out the significant economic benefits associated with our planned £29bn investment in new and upgraded electricity transmission infrastructure across the north of Scotland.
The report, titled ‘Re‑energising the North: Transforming Scotland’, provides an update on our previously outlined economic analysis on plans to invest billions in mission-critical grid infrastructure, providing further insight into the scale of economic opportunity associated with the investment programme.
The report reaffirms our programme as one of the largest private infrastructure investments in Scotland’s history, with around £29bn of planned investment across the north of Scotland in the next five years, and it details the extent of the economic opportunity across the region.Using advanced economic modelling to analyse the impact of clean power infrastructure investment, the report’s findings conclude that our investment:
- Will support up to 10,000 jobs in the north of Scotland, and 24,000 across Scotland;
- When added to investment by other transmission operators and investment in generation will add around £60bn to UK economic output - with the Scottish economy up to 3% larger over the long term;
- Will deliver long-term improvements in productivity, wages and economic resilience, with employees moving into higher-value roles and key sectors expanding permanently; and
- Will create unique opportunities for Scottish suppliers, businesses and communities across multiple sectors, including forestry, peatland restoration, aggregates and concrete too.
The findings highlight the importance of ensuring that the benefits of investment are felt locally, with thousands of skilled jobs, increased supply chain activity, and investment flowing into communities across the north of Scotland.
Read the full News and Views article to find out more.
Re-Mobilisation
Alyth substation was built for 400kV capability but since its energisation in February 2024 it has been operating at 275kV. We are now preparing to upgrade the substation to 400kV operation and therefore will be re-establishing the site compound at the entrance to the site from 1 July 2026 and this is anticipated to take approximately 3 weeks to complete.
New welfare cabins will be delivered from the above date, and these will be positioned where the previous compound had been established. Ahead of these upcoming movements we wish to highlight an increase of traffic on both the B954 and Balendoch Road (U100) as the new cabins are delivered. Welfare facilities will be set up with consideration for neighbouring properties, including measures to manage lighting and noise. Our Principal Contractor SiemensBAM have been reminded of the importance of being a good neighbour and ensuring lights are switched off out of hours when the site is closed and minimising disturbance.
We would also like to provide an update on the first of 2 transformer movements for the Alyth 400kV substation project.
What is happening and when
- As part of our substation upgrade works, specialist transport will move transformers to the Alyth substation from our existing Blackhillock substation in Keith. The first transformer is expected to arrive at the substation from 7 September 2026 with the second transformer anticipated for an April 2027 delivery. Both deliveries remain subject to approvals and weather. The transformers will travel from Dundee Port to Alyth Substation, using agreed routes assessed for safety and feasibility (including sections of the A92, A972, A90 and A94). Please see map available for download within the documents section of this webpage.
- Movements will be conducted under Special Order legislation and accompanied by a Police Scotland escort to ensure public safety.
We will time activities to reduce impacts, maintain access where safe, and keep traffic holds as short as possible. -
Osprey Webcam Back
We are pleased to confirm that our Osprey camera is back online and in the time the camera was down Harry and Flora have welcomed three healthy chicks.
The live feed can be viewed here. -
Osprey Webcam
Following the interruption since Saturday 12 April 2025 to the live stream that we have set up to the Osprey nest in the vicinity of our substation near Alyth, Wildlife Windows had hoped to have been able to resolve the issue which they believed was due to the connection to the 4G mast.
Unfortunately, after checking the system last week, Wildlife Windows have been unable to get the camera back up and running and with eggs now most likely being laid we anticipate not being able to get to the equipment until early June, once the chicks are well established and there is a lower risk to them this will also be dependent on further assessment by a Scheduled 1 licensed Ornithologist, and ensure a weather window of fine conditions to prevent any risk to the young.
We apologise for this technical issue and that we are not able to get the live stream back until later in the summer, but we hope to have it back up and running in plenty of time for Harry and Flora’s 2025 family to leave the nest.
Osprey Nest Camera
We are aware the live stream to the Osprey nest is currently down and has been since Saturday 12 April 2025.
Wildlife Windows have advised that they believe the issue is connection to the 4G mast. They are looking to send someone out to put a timer on the 4G which will force it to reboot once every 24 hours which we hope will fix the connection issue. -
We're here to lend a helping hand
We are committed to supporting the communities in the north of Scotland where we operate, both now and in the future. As part of our ongoing efforts to make a difference and have a positive impact on local communities, we are proud to offer volunteering days to local groups and charities, particularly in the areas that host our electricity infrastructure or where our proposed projects are located.
This month, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new Volunteering Webpage, designed to make it easier for local communities to request volunteering support from us. To request our help, simply complete the ‘Volunteering Nomination Form’ linked at the bottom of our new webpage. Please note, as our team works on a voluntary basis, it may take us some time to coordinate our people and match them with opportunities. We kindly ask for your patience as we work to keep up with volunteering demand.
Thank you for considering SSEN Transmission as a partner in your community efforts. Together, we can leave a positive, lasting legacy and help transform communities across the north of Scotland.
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Energisation
After almost three years of construction, we are celebrating after the new Alyth substation has been energised, marking a major milestone in the final phases of the project.
To find out more click here. -
STATCOM Tasks
Engineers are on site this week and next working on commissioning tasks for the STATCOM. These tasks will at times last until 11pm.
We wanted to highlight these tasks as localised lighting will be in place on site while these essential tasks are carried out. -
2023 Site Closure
Works on site will pause for the 2023 festive period with the site closing from 21 December 2023 until 3 January 2024.
Although the site will be closed for all construction workers during this period, security will remain in place. -
Community Liaison Group
We recently hosted the Alyth substation project's 8th Community Liaison Group (CLG) on site on wednesday 24 October. This was the final CLG meeting for this phase of works at the substation and we will look to reconvene the CLG in 2025 when we commence the 400kV upgrade works.
The minutes from the 7th CLG meeting that was held on 19 April are now available to be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage. If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives. If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson.
November 2023 Newsletter
The final project newsletter of 2023 is now available to be downloaded from the project documents section of this webpage and talks about works carried out on site since the summer as well as upcoming works for quarter 1 of 2024. -
Site Compound Demobilisation
As our current construction activities at our substation site are nearing completion, the site project team are now working towards the start of demobilising the main site welfare compound and reducing this to a smaller area.
New welfare cabins will be delivered to site from w/c 13 November 2023, and these will be positioned where the original compound area had been situated when works on site first commenced, just inside the entrance to site. Once the new compound is set up and being utilised which we expect to be from w/c 27 November 2023 works will then commence on removing the current welfare cabins. We anticipate these to start leaving site from w/c 4 December 2023.
Ahead of these upcoming movements we wish to highlight an increase of traffic on both the B954 and Balendoch Road (U100) as the new cabins are delivered and old cabins removed from site.
Lighting of the substation platform will remain in place as our Operatives continue to work towards full commissioning and these will be in place between 7am-7pm Monday to Sunday while works are being undertaken. On the days when there are no works being carried out, there will be no lighting on site.
Once the current welfare compound is fully removed, works will commence on reinstating that area.
If you have any queries regarding the above information or pertaining to the project in general, please do not hesitate to contract the projects Community Liaison Manager.
Access to Site
Following the issuing of weather warnings from the Met Office for Thursday 19 October and the days that follow and following the recent flooding of the main access road to site after the latest spate of bad weather we are anticipating that the main access road to the SSEN Transmission Alyth substation site will again become impassable due to flooding on Balendoch Road. In the event of this occurring and until any standing flood water dissipates our site operatives and priority deliveries will divert to utilise the access to site via the junction off the A926 at Ruthven.
This, like previous times will be a short term measure until Balendoch road fully re-opens, if we do have to use this alternative access local residents closest to the U100 will see an increase in traffic coming to site off the A926. In this interim period we will ensure it is only essential deliveries coming to site in order to minimise the impact to this section of road and to those living in the vicinity.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause if the Balendoch Road does close and as soon as any water does clear from the main access road all traffic will revert back to Balendoch Road.
Please do not hesitate to contact the projects Community Liaison Manger direct if you have any queries or concerns. -
7th Community Liaison Group (CLG)
The minutes from the 6th CLG meeting that was held on 24 November are now available to be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage.
If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives.
If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. We anticipate the next CLG meeting to be held in Q3/4 2023. -
Transformer oil installation
Following the successful delivery of our SCT at the substation in February, this week works commenced on filling the transformer with oil. This consisted of oil tankers being present on site overnight from Tuesday 4 April to Thursday 6 April. With the final oil tanker arriving on site on Friday 7 April.
Our Principal Contractor Siemens BAM were present throughout these overnight activities, and the works were quiet with only some localised lighting required when there was occasion for the operatives on site to move around. -
March 2023 newsletter
The first project newsletter of 2023 is now available to be downloaded from the project documents section of this webpage and talks about works carried out on site since the site re-opened as well as upcoming works for quarter 2. -
Transformer delivery
As works on site at Alyth substation continue to progress we are now preparing for delivery of the largest piece of plant for the substation, our Synchronous Compensator Transformer (SCT).
The delivery of the transformer will be undertaken under Police Scotland escort and the only expected road closure will be on the B954 at the junction with Balendoch Road (U100) from 11–12 February 2023.
Before travelling on the U100, the vehicle route is via a 24-axle trailer from Dundee docks (A85) to the Kingsway East (A90), it will then travel 8.8 miles before turning left onto the A94. While travelling on the A roads the vehicle will, when possible, pull in at intervals to allow traffic to pass.
Once arrived at the B954 junction with Balendoch Road, the transformer will be transferred from the 24-axle trailer to a 12-axle trailer and sit overnight, while it is at the junction with Balendoch Road, the B954 will remain closed. The following morning it will then be transported along the U100 to the substation site and at this point the B954 road closure will be lifted. A map of the route of the transformer from Dundee docks to the Alyth substation site can be downloaded from the project documents section of this website.
SSEN Transmission would like to thank the local residents for their patience during the construction phase of the Alyth substation which forms a key part of SSEN Transmission’s reinforcement of the East Coast transmission network, helping to support the connection of new renewable generation in the north of Scotland to the grid, enabling clean energy to be taken from where it is generated to where it is needed. -
Festive period
Works on the Alyth substation site will pause for the festive period with the site closing from 23 December 2022 until 4 January 2023.
Although the site will be closed for all construction workers during this period, security will remain in place.
December 2022 newsletter
We continue to make excellent progress on site and as we enter the final quarter of 2022 we are pleased to have published the next edition of the project's newsletter where you can find an overview of works to date since September and upcoming activities. The newsletter is available to be downloaded from the project documents section of this webpage. -
6th Community Liaison Group (CLG)
We recently hosted the Alyth substation project's 6th Community Liaison Group (CLG) on site on wednesday 16 November where we welcomed Cllr Hugh Anderson and Cllr Grant Stewart who were newly elected to the Strathmore ward in May.
The minutes from the 5th CLG meeting that was held on 6 April are now available to be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage. If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives. If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. We anticipate the next CLG meeting to be held in March 2023.
Balendoch Road
Due to the recent bad weather in the area, local residents will be aware that the main access road to the SSEN Transmission Alyth substation site is impassable due to flooding on Balendoch Road. In the interim until the standing flood water dissipates our site operatives and priority deliveries are having to access site via the junction off the A926 at Ruthven.
This is a shot term measure until Balendoch road fully re-opens, but until then local residents closest to the U100 will see an increase in traffic coming to site off the A926. In this interim period we have also made sure it is only essential deliveries coming to site in order to minimise the impact to this section of road and to those living in the vicinity.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused and as soon as the water has cleared from the main access road all traffic will revert back to Balendoch Road.
Please do not hesitate to contact the projects Community Liaison Manger direct if you have any queries or concerns. -
September 2022 newsletter
In this quarter, site works at the new Alyth substation have continued to progress at pace, with the completion of all exterior wall cladding and roofing to our newly constructed GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) hall and Statcom buildings. To find out more about progress made and upcoming activities our September 2022 newsletter can now be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage -
June 2022 Newsletter
The new substation site is continuing to progress at pace, to find out more on the recent activities on site, please download the June 2022 project newsletter from the project documentation section of this webpage. -
5th CLG Meeting and Site Visit
We recently hosted the Alyth substation project Community Liaison Group (CLG) fifth CLG meeting on site on 6 April including their 2nd site visit. The minutes from the fourth CLG meeting that was held on 19 January are now available to be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage. If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives. If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. We anticipate the next CLG meeting to be held in August 2022 -
March 2022 Newsletter
Since the site re-opened following the festive break our construction activities are continuing to progress well. To find out more on our site activities for the first quarter of 2022, please download the project newsletter from the project documentation section of this webpage. -
Balendoch Road Repairs
SSEN Transmission are pleased to confirm that the previously delayed road repairs on the section of Balendoch Road between the entrance to the substation through to the entrance to Haughend Farm will now go ahead on Wednesday 16 February. In order to carry out these necessary works this section of the road will need to be closed from 09:00hrs through to 16:00hrs on 16 February. Traffic management will be in place on the day of the works and advanced signage will be implemented. All traffic that would usually require access through this short section of road to connect to the B954 are asked to divert from the U100 onto the A926. Access will be maintained for all emergency vehicles. We would like to apologise in advance for any disruption and thank those that will be affected for your understanding while we carry out these works. A drawing showing the section of road (highlighted in yellow) that will be closed can be viewed and downloaded from the project documentation section of this website.
Delay in Road Repairs
Due to unforeseen circumstances the planned road repairs on the section of Balendoch Road between the entrance to the substation through to the entrance to Haughend Farm have unfortunately been delayed, we will communicate a new date in due course. We apologise for any inconvenience this delay in the road repairs being executed causes to local residents. -
Road Repairs
It has been apparent for some time now that the section of Balendoch Road between the entrance to the substation through to the entrance to Haughend Farm has dangerous areas which are in very poor condition and therefore SSEN Transmission’s Principal Contractor Siemens BAM who are delivering the construction of the new Alyth substation as a gesture of good will, will be carrying out necessary emergency remedial road repairs to this road on Monday 7 February to fill in and pave potholes on the road verge.In order to carry out these necessary works this section of the road will need to be closed from 09:00hrs through to 16:00hrs on 7 February. Traffic management will be in place on the day of the works and advanced signage will be implemented. All traffic that would usually require access through this short section of road to connect to the B954 are asked to divert from the U100 onto the A926. Access will be maintained for all emergency vehicles.We would like to apologise in advance for any disruption and thank those that will be affected for your understanding while we carry out these works.A drawing showing the section of road (highlighted in yellow) that will be closed can be viewed and downloaded from the project documentation section of this website.
Alyth CLG
The Alyth substation project Community Liaison Group (CLG) held their fourth CLG on 19 January via Microsoft Teams and we have now published the minutes from the third CLG meeting that was held on 6 October , these can be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage. If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives. If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. We anticipate the next CLG meeting to be held in April 2022. -
Project Update - December 2021
As our site teams at Alyth substation prepare for the site closing for the upcoming festive break, SSEN Transmission wanted to provide an update on construction progression.We recently commenced works on the GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) building, with 2 significant concrete pours having taken place in recent days. Good progress has also been made on the Statcom Building as well, with the concrete blinding for this building now completed too.All 6 gantries have also been excavated and blinded with 2 of these 6 gantry bases now fully complete. As part of the overall sustainable drainage scheme for the substation two Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDs) Ponds have been constructed.A key milestone also reached ahead of programme was the completion of the piling works that commenced in October. We had originally anticipated these activities to last until the end of February 2022 but due to our extensive ground investigation works the piling scope was significantly reduced and we anticipated the piling would be completed before the site closed for the festive season, so we are very pleased to advise that these works are now finished and there will be no requirement for any further piling works in the future. Our Principal Contractor Siemens BAM will demobilise from site for the festive period from 24 December and start back on 4 January for office staff and 10 January for all site staff. Site will operate a slow start procedure for 2 days to allow teams to assess the site for any issues that may have occurred due to poor weather during the break. Full site activities will commence by Wednesday 12 January 2022.
December Project Newsletter
The December edition of the Alyth substation newsletter is available to be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage and shares an overview of the site activities currently underway to keep all interested parties updated with the projects progress during construction. -
Third CLG Meeting
We held the third Alyth substation CLG meeting on 6 October, this was our first face to face meeting since the inception of the CLG for the Alyth substation project. The final approved minutes from the second meeting that was held in June can be downloaded from the project documentation section of this website. If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives. If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. -
October Project Newsletter
The October edition of the Alyth substation newsletter is available to be downloaded from the project documentation section of this webpage and shares an overview of the works underway and those coming up to keep all interested parties updated with the projects progress during construction.
Alyth Community Liaison Group Site Visit
Our project team were delighted to welcome members of the Alyth Community Liaison Group (CLG) to site on 18 August. The visit gave the opportunity for the project team to show the progress which has been made during the enabling works and in advance of the main construction works commencing for the substation platform. The project team will continue to work closely with local stakeholders as the project progresses through construction. Feedback from the local community will continue to play a vital role throughout the delivery of the project. -
Second CLG Meeting Held
We held the second Alyth substation CLG meeting on 30 June via Microsoft Teams. Minutes from the inaugural meeting that was held in March along with the Terms of Reference can be downloaded from the project documentation section of this website. If you have issues, concerns or comments you would like discussed at a CLG, please contact any of the Alyth or SSEN Transmission representatives. If you wish to attend a CLG in person, you are required to declare an agenda item in advance to Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. -
Project Newsletter
To give you an insight into what works and activities are coming up on site, the Alyth substation project team have created and published the first quarterly project newsletter. The newsletter will share an overview of the works underway and keep you updated with the projects progress during construction.The newsletter can be downloaded from the project documentation section of this website. -
Community Liaison Group
We held our first Community Liaison Group (CLG) meeting on 24 March 2021. The CLG is made up of representatives from the local community as well as Alyth and Meigle and Ardler Community Councils, Councillors from Strathmore Ward and project representatives from SSEN Transmission. Meetings will take place at regular intervals to discuss any matters relating to the Alyth substation project in the lead up to and during the construction period. Minutes will be made publicly available via this website and through local channels such as Alyth and Meigle and Ardler Community Councils. The date of the next CLG is 30 June 2021 6-8pm via Microsoft Teams. If you have any queries relating to this project please contact Louise Anderson, Community Liaison Manager. -
Meet the Buyer Event
We will shortlybe beginning construction works on the new 275/400kV Alyth substation. As part of this project, we are welcominglocal businesses to attend an informal Microsoft Teams meeting on Tuesday 9 March between 4-6pm, toengage with our Principal Contractor to exchange details to furtherdiscuss out with this introduction the possible business opportunities forthe local supply chain that may be available.This project has the potential to create local business opportunitiesin the following fields; accommodation, security, catering, cleaningservices, aggregate services, local labour services, road gritting, buildingand wholesaler merchants and others. We would encourage any localbusinesses to attend the session and discuss what possible businessopportunities there are with our Principal Contractor.If you would like to join the meeting please contact the project Community Liaison Manager, Louise Anderson. -
Weekend Working
SSEN Transmission’s PRI works Principal Contractor, I and H Brown, from 28 November will be commencing Saturday working. The working hours proposed, weather permitting, will be 8am-4.30pm.The commencement of Saturday working will help increase productivity for the PRI works and in turn reduce the duration of any disruption caused during these works. I and H Brown successfully completed the demolition of the disused old railway bridge this week, a day earlier than expected and we are keen to continue this productivity with the programme of our works.To ensure local residents are disturbed as little as possible there will be no Sunday working.
U100 Road Closure
The road closure that was postponed last week on the U100 at the disused railway bridge will now proceed today.We would ask that the area is avoided during the closure, however, should critical access through the works be required for local residents, then please contact either I and H Brown Project Manager, Aaron Scott on 07773 616289 or SSEN Transmission’s Construction Manager, Neil Macdonald on 07584 313588.
Road Closure Delay
The planned road closure on the U100 at the disused railway bridge that was to commence today, Thursday 19 November, has been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. The closure will now be postponed until next week. We will provide a further update when a date for the closure has been confirmed. SSEN Transmission apologies for any inconvenience this delay in these works has caused.
Road Closure
On Thursday the 19 November 2020, there will be a road closure at the disused railway bridge on the U100, this is to allow our Public Road Improvements Contractor, I and H Brown to begin the demolition of the bridge. The closure will come into effect from 10am on Thursday until 6pm, the road will also be closed on Friday 20 November between 8am and 6pm. We would ask that the area is avoided during the road closures on both Thursday and Friday, however, should critical access through the works be required for local residents, then please contact either I and H Brown Project Manager, Aaron Scott on 07773 616289 or SSEN Transmission’s Construction Manager, Neil Macdonald on 07584 313588. -
Public Road Improvements Commencement
On the 9th January, Perth and Kinross Council approved SSEN Transmission’s planning application for necessary Public Road Improvement (PRI) works ahead of the main construction for the Alyth substation commencing in 2021.Our preparations for these PRI works are now well advanced and we anticipate for them to commence on Monday 2nd November 2020, they include works to widen Balendoch Road between the junction to the B954 and the proposed new entrance to our substation, the demolition and reinstatement of the disused railway bridge with formation of embankments and associated works.The PRI works are expected to last until March 2021 and SSEN Transmission apologises for any inconvenience and disruption that these may cause to the local community. -
Carriageway Construction Testing Works
SSEN Transmission’s Public Road Improvement (PRI) works Principal Contractor, I&H Brown will be undertaking core sampling and permeability testing ahead of final design for the PRI works that we will be commencing later this year. These works are in accordance with Perth and Kinross Council as Roads Authority and will be carried out at U100 Hallyards, Meigle, the works will commence on 31 August 2020 for 7 days.We would like to apologise in advance for any disruption. Local access will remain for all agricultural traffic and local residents.The road will not require to be closed for these works and traffic management will be controlled with stop go boards. -
Planning Consents
SSEN Transmission welcome the decision made by Perth and Kinross Council on Wednesday the 24th of June 2020 to grant permission to proceed with our proposed new substation near Alyth. As a responsible developer, we will continue to engage with the local community before, during and after the construction of the substation, which is a critical piece of network infrastructure and will play an important part in the move to a low carbon economy. Consent for the Alyth substation was originally granted on the 19th December 2012 with a renewal being granted on the 20th June 2018 through a Town and Country Planning Application. As there had been changes in the proposed design since the original planning application was submitted, SSEN Transmission submitted a new application for consent on the 23rd October 2019. Along with the consent for the new Alyth substation, SSEN have now also secured consent from Perth and Kinross Council for associated Public Road Improvement (PRI) works which will include works to widen Balendoch Road between the junction to the B954 and the proposed new entrance to our substation, the demolition and reinstatement of the disused railway bridge with formation of embankments and associated works.In addition to the above, a Section 37 Consent has also been secured from the Scottish Ministers (submitted in October 2019). This consent is for the associated overhead line works in connection to the new Alyth substation and will see the installation of two new steel lattice terminal towers on the Kintore to Kincardine 275kV overhead line, connecting into the Alyth 275/400kV substation via new downleads; and one new steel lattice tower to replace an existing tower on the Tealing to Alyth 275kV overhead line route.SSEN intend to carry out the PRI works between September 2020 and March 2021 with construction commencing on the new substation in April 2021. We will ensure that we keep all stakeholders informed of timelines associated with the project as contractors are appointed and construction programmes are further defined. -
Application Submission
SSEN Transmission has submitted a consent application to the Scottish Government for the Alyth substation and reactive compensation project to install two new steel lattice terminal towers on the Kintore to Kincardine 275kV overhead line, connecting into the proposed Alyth 275/400kV substation via new downleads; and one new steel lattice tower to replace an existing tower on the Tealing to Alyth 275kV overhead line route. A copy of the application, is available for inspection, free of charge. This can be accessed during normal opening hours at Alyth Post Office / Scotmid Co-operative. Representations to the application may be submitted via the Energy Consents Unit website at www.energyconsents.scot/Register.aspx; by email to The Scottish Government, Energy Consents Unit mailbox at representations@gov.scot or by post, to The Scottish Government, Energy Consents Unit, 4th Floor, 5 Atlantic Quay, 150 Broomielaw, Glasgow, G2 8LU, identifying the proposal and specifying the grounds for representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Following the public consultation that SSEN Transmission held on the 10th of July 2019 and the feedback we received from this consultation, in the interest of engaging openly and meaningfully with the local community we have compiled a Frequently Asked Questions document that can be downloaded from the project documentation tab. -
Consultation Feedback
The project team would like to extend thanks to all members of the public who took the time to provide feedback on our public pre-application consultation event at Alyth town hall on Wednesday the 10th of July 2019. All responses received will now be reviewed ahead of submission of a planning application. -
Pre-Application Consultation
We are holding a pre-application consultation in Alyth town hall on Wednesday the 10th of July between 2-7pm and would welcome all local people and interested parties to attend to discuss our plans for a new 275/400kV electricity substation in Alyth.
North East and East Coast Information Brochure
Due to a vast increase in connection of renewable sources of energy in both the North East and East Coast regions, there is now a requirement to upgrade the transmission network. Over the coming decade, we are proposing to undertake several projects to upgrade the transmission network in the North East and East Coast of Scotland. As part of this process we have created an information brochure to show the projects that are being considered and when we intend to carry out works in the local areas. The information booklet can be downloaded from the project documentation tab.
Proposal of Application Notice
We have now submitted the Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) to Perth and Kinross Council under the terms of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure)(Scotland) Regulations 2013. This notice states our intent to submit a planning application to erect an electricity substation 450 metres north west of Haughend Farm, Meigle.
Documents
Substation Extension October 2026 Pre Application Consultation (PAC) Documents
Project Newsletter
Community Liaison Group Meeting Minutes
Project Documents
Gallery
Progress Gallery
A selection of photographs taken from site documenting the project construction progress.
FAQs
FAQs
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