Work underway to explore alternative potential site for new Fiddes substation

• SSEN Transmission can confirm that its teams are now actively exploring alternative potential sites for its proposed new substation around the Fiddes area of the Mearns in Aberdeenshire.

The Fiddes substation is a key component of SSEN Transmission’s Kintore-Fiddes-Tealing 400kV project, which will see a new overhead line installed between these locations, alongside new substations at both Fiddes and Tealing.

This project is part of a major upgrade of the electricity transmission network across Great Britain that has been independently assessed by the GB Electricity System Operator, National Grid ESO, as required to connect and transport the renewable electricity that is needed to help deliver UK and Scottish Government net zero and renewable targets. 

The project, the need of which has also been independently assessed and approved by the GB energy regulator, Ofgem, will also help secure the country’s future energy independence by reducing dependence on – and price exposure to – volatile global wholesale energy markets through enabling the connection of homegrown and affordable low carbon power. 

Recognising the strength of feeling amongst some individuals, groups and landowners and in response to feedback received in the consultation to date; SSEN Transmission has now extended the area of search for the new Fiddes substation as it seeks to establish the potential for an alternative viable site. 

If an alternative potential site is identified, further work will also be required to identify alternative potential overhead line routes and there would be further public consultation on this as part of the ongoing development of the project.

SSEN Transmission expects to have an update on its expanded site selection process by October.

Russell Stewart, Regional Development Project Manager, said:

“Whilst our consultation period is still open until Friday 28 July, we wanted to let the local community know our teams are now actively exploring the potential to find an alternative site for the new Fiddes substation.  We hope that this demonstrates that we are listening and actively considering local feedback where possible.

“To help inform the identification of a potential alternative site, our teams will continue to balance key environmental and technical constraints, alongside seeking to minimise community and landscape impacts.  This process will take several months to complete and we expect to have an outcome in the autumn.

“We would once again like to thank all stakeholders who have kindly taken the time to provide their feedback and encourage anyone with an interest in the project who has not yet shared their views to do so in advance of our extended consultation deadline of Friday 28 July.”