Limekiln Wind Farm Connection

About the Project

The connection comprises:

• A single circuit 132kV 'H' pole arrangement
• Overhead line running over a distance of approximately 4 km between the existing Dounreay Substation and the new proposed Limekiln 132/33kV Substation
• Approximately 500 meters of the connection will be undergrounded at the Dounreay Substation to avoid existing overhead lines

The average height of the trident poles are between 13 and 15 meters with an average span of around 80 meters.

As the overhead line leaves the new proposed substation at Limekiln, it will head east then northerly toward Dounreay crossing both the B874 and A836. Traffic management will be required during construction and will be consulted on in due course. The 132kV line circuit will terminate at new 132kV switchgear to be installed inside the existing Dounreay Substation.

Why is the Project Required?

As the transmission licence holder in the north of Scotland, we have a duty under Section 9 of the Electricity Act 1989 to facilitate competition in the generation and supply of electricity. We have obligations to offer non-discriminatory terms for connection to the transmission system, both for new generation and for new sources of electricity demand.

To enable the connection of Limekiln Wind Farm (if consented) to the transmission network, we are proposing to construct a new 132kV overhead line.

Under our Network Operators Licence, this connection should be efficient, co-ordinated and economic, whilst having the least possible impact on the environment.

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.

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.