Overview
Status: Operational Phase
About the Project
The two 30MVA 132/11kV grid transformers at St Fergus Substation form an important part of our transmission network. The existing transformers were manufactured in 1975 and have reached the end of their operational life of 40 years.
In addition to age-related concerns, the extreme coastal environment at St Fergus has contributed to the plant’s deterioration. A condition-based assessment has been carried out which found the transformers to be in poor external condition, with corrosion present.
Due to changes in specifications, it is not possible to install the replacement transformers in the same location as those currently in use. This is mainly due to the transformers now having to be housed inside a building due to their location and increased fire safety requirements.
A site selection report was commissioned to identify the most suitable option based on operational, technical, economic, and environmental assessments. Based on the information detailed in the report, we propose to locate the new 132/11kV St Fergus Substation to the west of St Fergus Gas Station and the adjacent A90.
What are Transformers?
Transformers allow us to increase and decrease the voltage of electricity when required, allowing delivery of electricity across the transmission network to be much more manageable and efficient.
Transformers vary in size, and in some cases can require specialist haulage equipment to transport them to site. Our Community Liaison Team will work alongside all local communities that may be affected by the delivery of the transformers to ensure that any disruption is kept to a minimum.
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.
Project Updates
Project updates
-
We're here to lend a helping hand
We are committed to supporting the communities in the north of Scotland where we operate, both now and in the future. As part of our ongoing efforts to make a difference and have a positive impact on local communities, we are proud to offer volunteering days to local groups and charities, particularly in the areas that host our electricity infrastructure or where our proposed projects are located.
This month, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new Volunteering Webpage, designed to make it easier for local communities to request volunteering support from us. To request our help, simply complete the ‘Volunteering Nomination Form’ linked at the bottom of our new webpage. Please note, as our team works on a voluntary basis, it may take us some time to coordinate our people and match them with opportunities. We kindly ask for your patience as we work to keep up with volunteering demand.
Thank you for considering SSEN Transmission as a partner in your community efforts. Together, we can leave a positive, lasting legacy and help transform communities across the north of Scotland.
-
March 23 Update
The final stage of the St Fergus East Substation project is nearing completion with the first of two-transformers scheduled to be energised in April 2023, and the final transformer delivery expected for early June 2023. To help minimise disruption to local residents, businesses and road users and ensure the transformer units can arrive safely, the manufacturer has appointed specialist haulier, Rawcliffe, to transport the equipment to site. As this is not a large abnormal load, no road closures are required to facilitate the movement of the transformers, and vehicles should be able to pass the convoy at regular opportunities on the road network when safe to do so. The delivery of the first transformer unit marks a major milestone in the project, which will ultimately secure the critical Gas Terminal electricity supply, and accommodate increased renewable generation from across the north of Scotland. The complex delivery has been carefully coordinated by our project teams, working with Rawcliffe, as well as Aberdeenshire Council and Police Scotland, to ensure disruption can be kept to a minimum for the local community and road users in the area. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we transport these transformers onto their final location in St Fergus. If you have any questions, please contact the Community Liaison Manager (dav.s.lynch@sse.com)
-
Festive period site closure
Our Principal Contractor Balfour Beatty’s works at St Fergus substation will pause for the festive period on Friday 16th of December until Wednesday 4th January 2023.
Transformer Delivery Update – December 2022
The final stage of the St Fergus East Substation construction is nearing completion with the first of two-transformer deliveries expected to arrive on the 12th of December, with the final transformer scheduled for early March 2023. To help minimise disruption to local residents, businesses and road users and ensure the transformer units can arrive safely, the manufacturer has appointed specialist haulier Rawcliffe . As this is not a large abnormal load , but more like a container transport, No road closures are required to facilitate the movement of the transformers, and vehicles should be able to pass the convoy at regular opportunities on the road network, when safe to do so.
The delivery of the first transformer unit marks a major milestone in the project, which will ultimately secure the critical Gas terminal electricity supply and accommodate increased renewable generation from across the north of Scotland. The complex delivery has been carefully coordinated by our project teams, working with the specialist haulier, Rawcliffe, as well as Aberdeenshire Council and Police Scotland, to ensure disruption can be kept to a minimum for the local community and road users in the area. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we transport these transformers onto their final location in St Fergus . If you have any questions, please contact the Community Liaison Manager (dav.s.lynch@sse.com).
-
June 2022 Update
Significant progress has been made at site with the construction activities now complete and commissioning works of the Substation nearing completion. Over the last few months several key elements of work have been carried out including the completion of the cable sealing end compound, commissioning and operation of the communication network, as well as completion of all works within the main Grid Transformer halls. The next milestone of the project will involve the delivery of GT2 132kV Transformer which we anticipate will be delivered in September 2022, followed by GT1 in January 2023. New grid transformers will become fully operational in April/May 2023, with decommissioning of the old existing St Fergus equipment to be completed by the end of 2023. A traffic management plan will be in place to support the delivery of the transformers, however as the transformer units are smaller than traditional grid transformer we do not expect this to cause any disruption to the local community. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support, understanding and cooperation whilst we continue to improve the local transmission for us all. Please see our “Progress Gallery” on the main section of this website to view images of the project. If you have any questions in relation to the project please contact Community Liaison Manager Dav Lynch (dav.s.lynch@sse.com). -
February 2022 Update
Progress on the construction of St Fergus substation is continuing to progress well. Over the last few months we have completed the installation of security fencing around the substation site and installation of road and pathway kerbs. The Control Building fitout is experiencing real progress with the completion of the LV AC&DC systems, along with the installation of the Control & protection, RTU and metering panels. The 11Kv installation is in full swing with the Manufacturing cold commissioning complete, and the installation of the 11kV cable throughout the substation. The Primary Electrical installation work is progressing well with the installation of 132kV cable installation in January, and the delivery of the grid transformer within the next couple of months. Over the next few months the access road to site will upgraded and the cable sealing end compound will be completed. To view more images please visit the "Photo gallery" on the "Project overview" section of the website. -
August 2021 Update
Work on the construction of SSEN Transmission’s new substation at St Fergus is making good progress, the cladding for the control building and two Grid transformer enclosures are nearing completion along with the installation of the primary plant structures and equipment. Work is now complete on the overhead line works with the temporary trident line being removed and the existing Tower 206 dismantled and foundations removed. The 132kV cable ducts installed between the new tower and substation are also complete which has allowed the start of the CSE platform and equipment foundations. Works will continue to progress over the next few months with the internal fitout and commissioning works. To view our progress gallery please see the “Project overview” section of this website. -
March 2021 Update
Despite the challenges we are all currently facing with the COVID-19 pandemic, both the substation and overhead line element of the St Fergus project have continued to progress, allowing us to continue our development of new critical infrastructure to enhance the GB electricity transmission. Welfare setup at our St Fergus Substation, including the construction of the Access road and Bell mouth work is now complete. Piledriving of the main Substation Platform along with the concrete foundation works of the first GT2 circuit is progressing. Over the next few months tower strengthening work and the construction of a new tower location will be carried out, as well as the installation of ADSS between St Fergus and St Fergus Gas substation. Critical protection and control improvements will be undertaking within the St Fergus gas terminal, and the existing St Fergus switching substation. -
Public Road Improvements
Ahead of the main construction works commencing of our recently consented substation in St Fergus, there will be a series of public road improvement works which commenced on the 11th of January, close to the A90. These works will consist of welfare set up and access and are expected to last until the end of February. The main construction work is scheduled to commence on completion of the welfare set up works.SSEN Transmission apologises for any inconvenience and disruption that these may cause to the local community. -
Section 37 Application
In October 2020 we submitted an application to Scottish Ministers for consent under section 37 of the Electricity Act 1989 relating to the over head line elements of our proposal. We have been working closely with the Energy Consents Unit to ensure that, during the COVID-19 restrictions imposed by the UK and Scottish Governments, the application can be processed formally and in accordance with all relevant Regulations. Please see following link should you wish to view the documents contained within our Section 37 application in full please visit the following link. -
Planning Consent
Following a full Aberdeenshire council meeting on Thursday 5th March, SSEN have been granted permission to proceed with our proposed substation at St Fergus. We welcome this decision from Aberdeenshire Council and as a responsible developer, we will continue to engage with the local community before, during and after the construction of the substation, which is a critical piece of network infrastructure and will play an important part in the move to a low carbon economy. We intend to begin construction on site following discharge of conditions as set out by the councils planners and will ensure we keep all stakeholders informed of timelines associated with the project as and when they become available. -
Planning Application Submitted
SSEN would like to confirm that we have recently submitted our planning application to Aberdeenshire Council regarding our proposals to build a new Substation at St Fergus. This application, which includes the results of various reports, surveys and feedback of local members of the community can be accessed at the following link https://upa.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=PYUZN7CAJOJ00SSEN welcome all feedback on our proposals, please do not hesitate to contact Community Liaison Manager - Gary Donlin - should you wish to discuss our proposals in further detail The reference number for the application is APP/2019/2300 -
Feedback Period Open
SSEN would like to thank all who took the time to attend our recent consultation event in St Fergus. It was fantastic to see such a great turn out from members of the local community and to hear their thoughts and concerns on our proposal for the St Fergus Substation. Our deadline for feedback following these events is on the 31st May and the project Community Liaison Manager will be discussing all submitted feedback with the project team over the coming weeks. Once we have done this we will be in touch with residents to provide a further update on the project, however in the meantime if you have any queries or issues then please do not hesitate to contact the project Community Liaison Manager, Gary Donlin, on 07384 798 101 or Gary.Donlin@sse.com -
SSEN Consultation Event
SSEN will be visiting St Fergus on Thursday 16th May to discuss our proposals for a new Substation with members of the public and local stakeholders. We will be in St Fergus Village Hall, 11 Hall Road, St Fergus, Peterhead, Aberdeenshire AB41 3QD between 14:00 and 19:00. We would love to meet with as many members of the local community as possible to discuss our proposals in more detail and to hear your thoughts and feedback on these. If you have any questions or queries on our event then please do not hesitate to get in touch with our Community Liaison Manager, Gary Donlin at gary.donlin@sse.com
Documents
-
st-fergus-brochure.pdf
- Type:
- Date:
- 18 September 2022
- Size:
- 2.5 MB
Section 37 Covering Letter & Advert
-
Covering Letter to Energy Consents Unit
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 247.1 KB
-
Section 37 Advertisement
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 89.7 KB
Section 37 Application Drawings
-
Cable Sealing End Compound General Arrangement & Elevations
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 745.6 KB
-
Location Plan and Site Plan
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 518.6 KB
-
Site Clearance Plan
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 2.6 MB
-
Temporary Diversion - Trident P1 P2 P4 & P5
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 83.2 KB
-
Temporary Diversion - Trident P3
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 86.7 KB
Environmental Appraisal & Appendices
-
Annex A - Photomontages - View 1
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 3.5 MB
-
Annex A - Photomontages - View 4
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 2.3 MB
-
Annex A - Photomontages - View 5
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 2.2 MB
-
Annex A - Photomontages - Viewpoint Setup
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 625 KB
-
Annex B1 - Extended Phase 1 Survey redacted signatures
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 1.3 MB
-
Annex B2 - Breeding Bird Survey
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 4.4 MB
-
Annex B3 - Winter VP Survey Report redacted signatures
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 1.1 MB
-
Annex B4 - Bird Species Protection Plan
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 617.7 KB
-
Annex B5 - Badger Species Protection Plan
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 635.3 KB
-
Annex C - Cultural Heritage Desk Based Assessment and Site Gazetteer
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 2.7 MB
-
Annex D1 - Flood Risk Assessment Substation
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 2.6 MB
-
Annex D2 - Flood Risk Assessment Cable Sealing End
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 2.2 MB
-
Annex F - General Environmental Management Plans
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 804.4 KB
-
Environmental Appraisal
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 9.4 MB
-
Report to inform Habitats Regulations Appraisal
- Type:
- Date:
- 01 October 2020
- Size:
- 3.3 MB
Gallery
Progress Gallery
FAQs
FAQs
Recite me
To make use of this function please click on the 3 'A's' button at the bottom left of the website.
