Transformers delivered to Creag Dhubh substation in major milestone for Argyll energy project

Image: Hauliers approaching the Creag Dhubh substation with supergrid transformer in tow.

• Two specialist transformers delivered to Creag Dhubh following carefully coordinated multi-stage delivery operation from Poland to Argyll
• Milestone brings SSEN Transmission a step closer to energising the new substation and supporting renewable energy generation across the region

A major milestone has been reached in the Creag Dhubh substation project, with the delivery of two supergrid transformers that form a vital part of the key clean energy project in Argyll. The successful deliveries follow a carefully coordinated operation to transport the units to site, including shipping them from Poland to Clydebank before an onward journey of approximately 90 miles to the substation near Cladich.

Supergrid transformers are among the largest components on the electricity network, often weighing several hundred tonnes. They are used to step voltage up or down, enabling electricity to be transmitted efficiently across the network. Transporting these components required specialist vehicles, detailed planning and carefully managed traffic arrangements.

We worked closely with key partners Hitachi Energy and specialist haulage and freight operators Allelys and Fracht, as well as Transport Scotland, BEAR Scotland, Police Scotland, BT and local authorities, to guide the deliveries through multiple stages of the route. Temporary traffic controls were used where required to ensure the safe passage of the loads while minimising disruption as far as possible.

Following their arrival on site, both transformers were moved into position on specialist platforms as part of a controlled operation that took several days to complete. With the units now in place, work will continue towards energising the substation, which forms part of a series of network upgrades across Argyll to support new renewable energy generation and strengthen local energy security.

Lee Biddulph, Project Manager for the Creag Dhubh substation project, said:

"Transporting components of this size is a complex operation that requires extensive planning and coordination, and the successful delivery of both transformers is a significant achievement for everyone involved in the Creag Dhubh project. We're grateful to local communities and road users for their patience and understanding during the transportation process, and I'd also like to thank the key agencies and local authorities whose support helped make these deliveries possible. The safe delivery of these transformers marks a major milestone for the project. They will play a vital role in strengthening the local electricity network in Argyll, enabling more renewable energy generation while supporting Scotland and the UK's long-term energy security and clean energy ambitions."

Richard Holliday, Market Manager UK, Business Unit Transformers, Hitachi Energy, added:

“We’re proud to support the UK’s energy transformation, supplying high-performance transformers that will strengthen Scotland’s electricity network and help deliver a cleaner, more resilient energy future.”

The arrival of the transformers follows a recent visit by local councillors to the substation, where they met the project team and learned more about the economic benefits of SSEN Transmission's investment in new and upgraded electricity transmission infrastructure in the area, highlighted in its recently published economic impact report.

Of the £1.3 billion currently planned for projects across Argyll and Bute, around £216 million is expected to be awarded to local businesses, supporting hundreds of jobs and helping to drive sustainable economic growth throughout the region.

For more information on the Creag Dhubh substation project, visit Creag Dhubh Substation - SSEN Transmission