The overall aim of the project is to reinforce the existing transmission network connections in the Argyll region, to enable renewable energy projects to connect to the GB transmission network and to ensure security of supply.
The existing transmission network for Argyll was originally designed to serve a rural area with low demand for electricity. Requests from renewable generation developers to connect to the network in this area exceed the current capacity of the existing transmission network, meaning a new transmission circuit is required to meet demand from generation developers and ensure security of supply.
We have been consulting locally on this project (formerly referred to as the North Argyll Project) since March 2016.
The original proposals consisted of a new 275/132kV substation (Creag Dhubh) near to the existing Inveraray to Taynuilt 132kV overhead line, with a new 275kV overhead line circuit between the proposed Creag Dhubh substation and the existing Dalmally Switching Station.
We presented our preferred overhead alignment from Creag Dhubh substation to the existing Dalmally Switching Station during a consultation event in March 2018.
In recognition of the feedback received (and in combination with previous comments dating back to 2016), we committed to explore underground cable options and assess the potential for alternative overhead line options that would avoid crossing the Strath of Orchy. In September 2020, a consultation relating to the three options was launched to seek stakeholder views regarding the three options considered for the project.
Based on the feedback received through its consultation, in particular from statutory stakeholders, our preferred option has been identified as number three. This option addresses a number of concerns that local community members had raised about the visual and cumulative impacts of connecting to the existing network infrastructure in Dalmally. It also avoids the significant environmental challenges associated with the undergrounding option, which presented a significant risk of pollution to Loch Awe, due to the risk of local watercourses flooding in the area.
The Creag Dhubh–Dalmally project is part of a wider strategy to upgrade the main transmission network across Argyll to 275kV to support the growth in renewables across the region and the transition to net zero emissions, supporting UK and Scottish Government climate change targets.
In partnership with our consultants 3DWebtech, we have recently created a visualisation video which will allow stakeholders to view a 3D visualisation of the Creag Dhubh - Dalmally project in the local area, we hope that this will aid understanding of the project and increase transparency.
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.
The Scottish Ministers are responsible for determination of applications submitted under Section 37 of the Electricity Act 1989. Both statutory consultees and members of the public have the right to submit their representations on the application. All representations will be considered by Scottish Ministers in their determination of the application.
The Office for Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), as the regulator, has to approve all investment so project proposals are developed under license conditions.
Preferred route corridors chosen will comply with revised ‘Holford Rules’ which are the recognised industry approach to routeing overhead lines amended to reflect Scottish circumstances.
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.
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.
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection, Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
Related Projects: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection
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