A specialised drone has been used to accelerate construction on the Isle of Lewis and Harris in what is believed to be a UK first.
SSEN Transmission is installing a new overhead line between Harris and Stornoway, with the drone used to install a bond rope for conductor work in a single flight.
Using a heavy-lift DJI FlyCart 30 Drone from heliguy, combined with advanced systems from Aureos Energy Ltd, the method installed high-capacity pilot ropes which, once flown, are used to directly pull the conductor allowing for immediate installation.
The method aims to reduce disruption to sensitive peatlands and protect fragile habitats on Lewis, while shortening installation time from days to hours. It also enhances safety by decreasing the number of personnel and vehicles required on challenging terrain.
The initiative marks a milestone in SSEN Transmission’s construction of the new 58km, 132kV overhead line between the Harris and Stornoway Grid Supply Points. Thanks to the progress enabled by the drone deployment, half of the new line is set to be energised in the coming months, with full energisation due later this year. By replacing infrastructure dating from 1990, it will improve resilience and strengthen energy security across the Western Isles.
Andrew Ewing, project manager for SSEN Transmission, said, “Using drone technology for conductor installation has been a game changer for this project. By streamlining this stage of construction, we’re able to deliver the new line much more quickly, while limiting the need for vehicles and personnel to cross some of the most UK’s most sensitive peatland.”
Gordon Cranston, Aureos Energy’s head of drone services – transmission, added, “At Aureos, we are committed to advancing the construction industry through innovation and the strategic use of technology. We would like to express our gratitude to our client, SSEN Transmission, for their proactive approach in embracing new technologies to enhance construction practices. Their support for innovation has been crucial in driving our collective progress.”
Ruairi Hardman, business development manager at heliguy, commented, “Aureos Energy’s success with the FlyCart 30 reflects years of close collaboration – consultancy, supply, training, and shared development. It shows how powerful a long-term drone partnership can be. By growing its capability step-by-step, Aureos is delivering groundbreaking work.”
