

SSEN Transmission is proposing to upgrade the existing 275kV East Coast transmission network to enable new generation to link to Great Britain’s transmission system, allowing the onward supply of power to centres of demand.
There is currently a 275kV overhead line (OHL) T-Junction tower at Haughend near Alyth, and as part of the upgrade a new substation including reactive compensation (equipment to stabilise network voltage) is proposed at this location. This new substation will operate at 275kV but will be built for 400kV capability.
A selection of photographs taken from site documenting the project construction progress.
SSEN Transmission has a licence obligation to invest in its existing assets to maintain network health and condition. SSEN Transmission also has a statutory duty under the Electricity Safety Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002 to ensure that the electricity transmission network is fit for purpose.
This strategic grid reinforcement is deemed to be essential for providing the transmission capacity necessary to realise the potential of Scotland’s renewable energy resources, maintaining long-term security of electricity supply supporting sustainable economic development.
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.
The data in this map is provided for indicative purposes only and may be subject to change. Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc do not accept responsibility for its accuracy, completeness or validity. The data should not be copied, reproduced or utilised externally without permission.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is the trading name of Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution Limited, Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc, Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution plc and Southern Electric Power Distribution plc.
Investments in projects are made by SHE Transmission plc. Electricity transmission companies are authorised to recover the costs of such investments through 'use of system' charges which are levied by National Grid Electricity Transmission plc on generators and suppliers of electricity. Suppliers recover their costs from all electricity customers. In order to protect the interests of customers, the transmission companies have to demonstrate to the energy regulator, Ofgem (Office for Gas and Electricity Markets) that proposed investments are necessary, are efficient and are economical so that the charges which are ultimately levied on all electricity customers are justified.
This means SHE Transmission is subject to a funding mechanism established by Parliament and regulated by Ofgem. Cross subsidies between different businesses in the SSE group is not permitted.
It’s the highest voltage electricity network in the UK – the ‘motorway network’ of the energy world. It transmits large quantities of electricity over long distances via wires carried on a system of mainly metal towers (pylons) and large substations. Transmission voltages in Scotland are 132kV, 275kV and 400kV. Larger generation schemes usually connect to the Transmission system.
The lower voltage parts of the system are called distribution networks. In Scotland, these local networks operate below 132kV whereas in England the distribution network includes 132kV.
SHE Transmission are regulated by the Office for Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), the regulator responsible for representing consumers' interests. Electricity consumer interests are therefore one of our key drivers and this is enshrined in our statutory duties under the Electricity Act.
In particular we have a statutory duty to develop, maintain and operate an efficient, economic and co-ordinated transmission system. Since the costs of these projects will ultimately be paid for by electricity consumers, we have a responsibility to take cost into account with due weighting in a comparison against other important factors.
There is potential for travel disruption during construction, when we take delivery of key plant items or because of increased volumes of traffic on the local road network. Disruption will be minimised and typically controlled through an agreed Traffic Management Plan with Perth and Kinross Council as part of any consent conditions. SHE Transmission aims to ensure that construction traffic uses the roads safely and that any inconvenience to the public is kept to a minimum whilst maintaining a safe environment for the workforce and other road users.
As part of the Environmental Assessments, potential impact from construction noise will be evaluated and mitigation measures instigated where necessary.
A flood assessment was carried out on the substation site and we don’t foresee any flooding. The substation site is out with the 1 in 1000 year flood event zone and the finished platform level has a 2 metre freeboard above the 1 in 1000 year flood event.
As part of the planning application process, PKC will notify all residential properties within 20m of the application site. In addition, they may choose to consult SEPA on the application and if that happens we shall work with them on any issues raised.
Yes. Every effort will be made to keep the Haughend Road open during the Public Road Improvement works. Small closures for example to remove the disused railway bridge will be required so local route diversions may be required.
SHE Transmission are upgrading the Haughend Road as part of the works and will maintain the road in agreement with the planning condition set by PKC.
The substation access will be located at the north west corner of the site.
As part of the planning process we will agree construction operational working hours with Perth and Kinross Council. Construction works will only take place during these agreed hours and in planning the works, our contractors will look to minimise the impact of construction noise on neighbours and the public.
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation, East Coast 275kV OHL Upgrade, East Coast 400kV OHL Upgrade, Kintore 400kV Substation, North East 400kV, Peterhead Substation, New Deer Substation, Rothienorman Substation, Tealing Substation Extension
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
Related Projects: Alyth 275kV Substation & Reactive Compensation
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