SSEN Transmission submits appeals for four proposed substations
7 April 2026
Appeals have now been submitted to the Scottish Government’s Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) following decisions by Angus Council, Aberdeenshire Council and the Highland Council to refuse consent for the proposed Emmock, Carnaig, Hurlie and Fanellan 400kV substations.
The proposed substations are critical elements of plans to strengthen the electricity transmission network across the north of Scotland and Great Britain, enabling the connection and transportation of clean, home‑grown renewable power and supporting national energy security and clean power ambitions.
In each case, the decisions to refuse consent went against the recommendations of the councils’ own planning officers and key statutory agencies, none of whom raised objections to the proposals.
Together, the four substations form part of the same strategic programme of investment in crucial new and upgraded electricity transmission infrastructure required to support the growth of renewable electricity generation across the north of Scotland and to transport that power to homes and businesses across Great Britain.
Commenting on the submission of the appeals, Alison Hall, Director of Development at SSEN Transmission, said:
“Upgrading the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland is essential if Scotland and the UK are to deliver on our energy security and clean power ambitions. The proposed Emmock, Carnaig, Hurlie and Fanellan substations have been carefully designed to help meet that need.
Our planning applications are informed by extensive development work, detailed technical assessment and thorough engagement with key stakeholders, including local communities.
In addition to supporting clean, affordable power, these projects would deliver wider economic benefits, supporting jobs and local businesses during construction and helping to underpin longer‑term investment and economic growth.
We strongly believe that we have developed robust and policy‑compliant proposals. Submitting these appeals will allow the merits of the projects to be fully and fairly considered, and we remain committed to engaging constructively with local communities and stakeholders throughout the appeals process.”
While the appeals process is ongoing, we will continue to carry out pre‑construction ground investigation works and surveys at the proposed substation sites. These activities are permitted under existing development rights and are necessary to further understand ground conditions and site features, helping to inform detailed design and construction planning should consent ultimately be granted.