Transforming Rannoch – then and now

SSEN has unearthed photographs of the first transformer deliveries to Rannoch Substation almost 90 years on as an extension to the site is constructed.

Rannoch substation has delivered locally-generated hydro electricity to residents in the north of Scotland since the 1930s. Almost 90 years on, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is extending the substation to facilitate new hydro generation connections and improve the security of supply for the area.

SSEN has released photographs of the first transformers being delivered to Rannoch by steam powered traction engines alongside images of the latest transformer delivery to site which were undertaken by hauliers, JB Rawcliffe & Sons.

SSEN Project Manager, Duncan McCall said: “Transformer deliveries have come a long way with the original deliveries to the site being undertaken by steam-powered traction engines. We now work alongside specialist hauliers, roads authorities and the police to make sure each delivery can be completed smoothly, safely and with minimum disruption to other traffic.

“We are fully refurbishing Rannoch substation to meet modern safety standards and increased demand on the electricity network and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their patience and understanding while construction work and local road improvements have been progressing.”

The Rannoch substation extension requires the delivery of two new grid transformers and two new primary transformers. The next transformer is scheduled to be delivered in August 2017 and the works are expected to be complete by the end of the year.