Overview
Status: Operational Phase
About the Project
An expanded substation and a high voltage direct current (HVDC) converter station are in construction at the site of the existing electricity substation at Blackhillock, near Keith, Moray.
The main elements of the project are as follows:
- A 400kV GIS (gas insulated substation)
- A 132kV GIS substation
- A 275kV AIS (air insulated substation)
- A HVDC converter
- An underground HVDC electricity cable from Blackhillock to Portgordon
The new substation will be capable of carrying up to 1200MW of electricity between Caithness and Moray. It is made up of eight bays of 132kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS), thirteen bays of 275kV Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) and ten bays of 400kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS), two 360 MVA Power Transformers. Two 530 MVA cables are being installed between Blackhillock and Keith Substations to reinforce the network.
Find Out More About Caithness - Moray HVDC Link
Transformer Delivery Images 2017
Four supergrid transformers that will play a vital role in the north of Scotland’s future electricity network made the final stage of their journey from Buckie Harbour to Blackhillock substation near Keith, throughout July 2017.
The transformers, which each weigh approximately 245 tonnes, have been delivered by sea from Sweden to Buckie Harbour where they are due to be loaded on to multi-axle trailers by specialist haulier Allelys, working on behalf of us and our lead contractor ABB.
We have published some of our images here. If you would like to add your own photos, please email them to the project contact at the bottom of this page.
How we’re embracing artificial intelligence (AI)
We intend to use AI to assist our experienced teams in the analysis of your feedback, so we can categorise key points raised more quickly. You can learn more about how we’re utilising AI on this dedicated web page.
Project Updates
Project updates
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We're here to lend a helping hand
We are committed to supporting the communities in the north of Scotland where we operate, both now and in the future. As part of our ongoing efforts to make a difference and have a positive impact on local communities, we are proud to offer volunteering days to local groups and charities, particularly in the areas that host our electricity infrastructure or where our proposed projects are located.
This month, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new Volunteering Webpage, designed to make it easier for local communities to request volunteering support from us. To request our help, simply complete the ‘Volunteering Nomination Form’ linked at the bottom of our new webpage. Please note, as our team works on a voluntary basis, it may take us some time to coordinate our people and match them with opportunities. We kindly ask for your patience as we work to keep up with volunteering demand.
Thank you for considering SSEN Transmission as a partner in your community efforts. Together, we can leave a positive, lasting legacy and help transform communities across the north of Scotland.
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Transformer deliveries
Four supergrid transformers that will play a vital role in the north of Scotland’s future electricity network are set to make the final stage of their journey from Buckie Harbour to Blackhillock substation near Keith, over the coming weeks.
Project FAQs
FAQs
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