Upcoming consultation events for Balallan Switching Station and Muaitheabhal (Uisenis) Wind Farm connection
The pre-application events offer an opportunity for local residents to meet the project teams, learn more about the proposals, and share feedback. The projects aim to unlock the Western Isles’ significant renewable energy potential while enhancing the reliability of the island electricity supply.
Event details:
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Wednesday 22 October, 3-7pm – The Kinloch Historical Society Community Hub, Balallan, HS2 9PN
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Thursday 23 October, 3-7pm – The Resource Centre, Kershader, HS2 9QA
Located off the A859 near Loch Stranndabhat, the proposed Balallan 132kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) Switching Station would provide a connection to Muaitheabhal Wind Farm via a combination of underground cable and new single circuit 132kV steel trident pole overhead line. It would also link to the existing Harris – Stornoway 132kV overhead line, which would itself connect to the proposed Lewis Hub 132kV substation.
Lyle Cairns, Project Manager at SSEN Transmission, said:
“The proposed Balallan Switching Station will play a key role in connecting the Muaitheabhal (Uisenis) Wind Farm and managing power flows between circuits, enabling safe and efficient delivery of renewable energy to the GB transmission grid. It will also provide local renewable electricity supply by linking to the planned Lewis Hub and Stornoway Grid Supply Point, supporting the wider distribution network. Throughout the development process, we’ve worked to balance community and stakeholder feedback with technical and environmental considerations. Our initial engagement events that took place in August provided valuable insight that has helped shape our final design plans. We’re looking forward to meeting with the community at our upcoming consultation events on 22 and 23 October, and we encourage anyone interested in the proposals to come along and speak with our project teams.”