The Black Isle community has expressed concerns over plans for transporting large transformers through local villages as part of the Fanellan Substation project. SSEN Transmission recently submitted a planning application for a new 400kV substation and converter station at Fanellan, a project intended to support national energy security and clean power targets.

As part of the project, SSEN Transmission revealed plans to land barges carrying large transformers at a temporary quay in the Beauly Firth. The transformers would then be transferred onto a road train, passing through North Kessock and along the A9 to the construction site.

Local officials, including John Stott, chairman of the Knockbain Community Council, voiced frustration over the lack of consultation with residents before the project was announced. Stott noted that the community had not been informed about the potential disruption, which could include large vehicles moving through the village and surrounding roads.

SSEN Transmission has stated that the exact delivery route is still under review, and the transformers are not expected to arrive until 2028. The company assured that it would engage with relevant stakeholders to minimize any disruptions.

The project, which has faced opposition in nearby communities, is expected to play a key role in meeting clean energy and national energy security goals.

Source: inverness-courier.co