SSEN Transmission has welcomed the decision by Scottish Ministers to approve its Section 37 application for a new 132kV overhead line in the Highlands.
As part of the Melgarve Cluster project, the new line will run for approximately 7km, which together with underground cabling will connect the Cloiche Wind Farm – located around 11km southeast of Fort Augustus – to the existing Melgarve 400/132kV substation.
The new infrastructure will enable renewable electricity generated at the wind farm to be transported onto the wider transmission network, supporting Scotland and the UK’s clean power and energy security ambitions.
The route has been informed by detailed environmental assessments, helping to deliver a balanced design that seeks to minimise impacts on local habitats and land use.
With consent now granted, construction is expected to begin in summer 2026.
Laura McWilliams, SSEN Transmission Project Director, said:
'We’re pleased to have secured Section 37 consent from Scottish Ministers, following a detailed development process that has sought to minimise impacts while delivering this important connection.
'The new double circuit 132kV overhead line will enable the efficient transfer of electricity from the Cloiche Wind Farm into the Melgarve substation, where it will feed into the wider transmission system delivering homegrown, clean power for homes and businesses.
'We’re grateful to everyone who engaged with us throughout the development of this project, including those who attended our consultation events. That feedback has been central in shaping our design, and we will continue to work closely with the local community and other stakeholders as the project progresses.'
Source: SSEN Transmission
