Skye Reinforcement

About the Project

We are currently developing proposals to reinforce the high voltage electricity network from Ardmore on the Isle of Skye to Fort Augustus. The existing 132kV overhead transmission line from Fort Augustus to Ardmore is the sole connection from the mainland electricity transmission system to Skye and the Western Isles, and is essential for maintaining security of supply in the area.

Recent studies into the condition of the existing infrastructure have indicated that the section of overhead line between Quoich substation and Ardmore substation requires to be rebuilt, and the existing line removed upon completion of the new line.

Furthermore, as a result of an increase in renewable energy projects requesting access to the electricity transmission network, there is a requirement to increase the capacity of the overhead line to allow renewable developments to connect.

Fort Augustus Substation to Broadford Substation

We are proposing to construct a new double circuit 132kV overhead line (OHL) comprising steel structures. The existing Fort Augustus to Skye Tee 132kV trident wood pole OHL and the existing 132kV steel lattice OHL between Skye Tee and Broadford would be dismantled and removed once the new OHL is operational.

Broadford Substation to Edinbane Substation

The existing single circuit wood pole trident 132kV OHL would be replaced with a new double circuit 132kV OHL comprising steel structures. The existing OHL would be dismantled and removed once the new OHL is operational.

Edinbane Substation to Ardmore Substation

The existing single circuit wood pole trident 132kV OHL would be replaced with a new higher capacity 132kV trident wood pole OHL. During construction, the existing OHL and its replacement would run in tandem but on energisation of the new OHL, the existing OHL would be dismantled and removed.

Why is the Project Required?

Securing Supply

The current overhead line was constructed between 1956 and 1989, and after a long service is now reaching the end of its operational capabilities. The replacement is essential to maintain security of supply to homes and businesses along its route, as well as to the Western Isles which is supplied by two subsea cables from the north of Skye.

Connecting Renewables

There is demand to connect new renewable electricity generation on Skye, which requires an increase in capacity of the overhead line.

Network for Net Zero

We intend to ‘future proof’ the replacement line to allow the connection of additional renewables to help meet government Net Zero climate change targets, supporting the transition to Net Zero emissions.

Film: Over the Hills to Skye 1978

The film, produced by the North of Scotland Hydro Electric Board (now Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks) and Balfour Beatty, illustrates the trials associated with the construction of the original line which connected the Isle of Skye to the mainland of Scotland in the 1970s.

Community Engagement

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.