SSEN Transmission invites you to share your feedback on proposals for a new switching station at Gills Bay

On 17 and 18 February SSEN Transmission will host two online consultation events to engage with local community on its proposals for a new switching station near Philips Mains, Mey.

The new proposals will replace existing plans, consented in 2016, to build a larger substation which incorporated a 33kV substation and two 33/132kV transformers at the site. Following a change in background demand over time, SSEN Transmission have reviewed the project need, resulting in a re-design of the proposals for the Gills Bay site. The redesign has reduced the size and scope of the proposals, identifying there is no longer a requirement of any 33 kV elements or associated transformers.

SSEN Transmission is now seeking feedback on its new proposals to construct a new switching station, comprising of a single switchgear building which will sit on a hardcore platform. The new switching station is required to facilitate the connection of new renewable energy generation in the area, playing a key role in the transition to net zero emissions.  The proposed switching station will connect to the electricity transmission network via a previously consented 132 kV overhead line and underground cable to Thurso South substation.

To facilitate the consultation events SSEN Transmission has developed an online consultation tool, to enable the local community to experience the full exhibition from home on a computer, tablet or mobile device, whilst maintaining Government guidance on social distancing. The online exhibition has been designed to look and feel like a face to face consultation in a community hall, with exhibition boards, maps and the opportunity to share views on the proposals.

Project Manager Derek Hearns said: “As the transmission operator in the North of Scotland, we must develop and maintain an efficient, co-ordinated and economical system of electricity transmission. Following the change in demand in the area we have revisited the scope of this project to ensure we present proposals which are the most economical for GB electricity bill payers.

“As a responsible developer we want to keep the local community updated on our proposals, and we are also keen to hear their views on our new plans and listen to their feedback.

“We encourage anyone who might be interested in our proposals to join the virtual consultations where they will be able to engage directly with our project team, via a live chat function, ask any questions they might have about the project and share their feedback on the current proposals.”

The virtual consultation events will be taking place as follows:

17 February 2021 14:00 - 16:00

18 February 2021 18:00 - 19:30

 To join the virtual consultation please visit the project page