The first of 47 steel towers which will carry electricity along a 13.3km route through Argyll has been completed.
SSEN Transmission hailed the milestone as “a crucial phase” in strengthening Scotland’s electricity transmission network and supporting the transition to clean energy.
The towers form part of the Creag Dhubh–Dalmally 275kV overhead line project, which will connect the new Creag Dhubh substation to the existing network at Glen Lochy near Dalmally.
The development is a key element of SSEN Transmission’s wider Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Reinforcement project, designed to unlock capacity for renewable energy and help deliver UK and Scottish Government targets on clean power and energy security.
So far, more than 9km of access tracks have been built to allow safe delivery of works across challenging terrain. Tower assembly is now underway, with foundations for the remaining structures progressing well.
Construction of the new Creag Dhubh substation, which began in summer 2024, is also advancing, with earthworks complete and two main GIS buildings delivered by principal contractor BAM Nuttall. Siemens Energy is expected to begin electrical installation early in 2026.
Local firms have played a key role in the project, including Clachan-based A&L McCrae, which has supplied concrete and stone for access tracks, and Oban-based TSL Contractors, which delivered the substation buildings.
The project is expected to bring long-term benefits to Argyll by improving network resilience and supporting local economic opportunities.
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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."
He added: “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.”
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