THE first of 47 steel lattice towers has been fully assembled along the 13.3km route of SSEN Transmission’s Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275 kV overhead line project.
The project, which forms part of SSEN Transmission’s Argyll and Kintyre 275kV reinforcement initiative, will connect the new Creag Dhubh substation to the existing electricity transmission network at Glen Lochy, near Dalmally.
SSEN said the work will reinforce the transmission network across Argyll and Kintyre and unlock capacity in the system to enable the future connection and transportation of renewable energy, which supports the UK and Scottish governments’ clean energy and energy security targets.
To date, over 9km of access tracks have been constructed, enabling the safe and efficient delivery of works across challenging terrain. Tower assembly is now underway across the route, with foundations for the remaining towers progressing well.
The new overhead line will connect to a new 275kV substation at Creag Dhubh near Cladich. Since starting in Summer 2024, substation construction works are progressing well and are now reaching the halfway mark, SSEN said.
Earthworks are complete, with more than 350,000 cubic metres of earth moved within the site to create a stable platform for the substation, with teams implementing robust environmental mitigation measures throughout construction to protect sensitive habitats.
Principal Contractor BAM Nuttall has recently completed the two main GIS substation buildings, paving the way for Siemens Energy to begin electrical installation work early in 2026.
Despite often challenging weather conditions, the project remains on track thanks to the dedication of the workforce and strong collaboration with local Argyll businesses, SSEN added.
Clachan-based A&L McCrae, working on behalf of Wood Group, has supplied concrete for both substation and overhead line works and is supplying stone constructing access tracks on the overhead line project. Oban-based TSL Contractors has delivered the substation buildings on behalf of BAM Nuttall, with both contractors playing a key role in the project’s success to date.
David Fraser, SSEN Transmission’s lead project manager, said, “Completing the first tower is a major milestone for the Creag Dhubh–Dalmally overhead line project and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams and delivery partner Wood Group.
“We’ve also seen significant progress at Creag Dhubh substation, with our Principal Contractor BAM Nuttall and TSL working tirelessly through challenging weather conditions to deliver the earthworks and complete the two main buildings – a huge step forward for the programme.
“Importantly, this achievement reflects the strength of collaboration with local businesses. Working with Clachan-based A&L McCrae and Oban-based TSL has been invaluable, not only in delivering high-quality work but also in supporting the local economy and creating lasting benefits for the community.
“This infrastructure is vital to unlocking Scotland’s renewable potential and delivering a secure, low-carbon electricity network for generations to come, while also bolstering Argyll’s own energy security.”
