The electricity transmission network in central Scotland was first built in the 1920s. Since then it has grown and evolved to meet the region’s industrial needs and serve its expanding population.
Today, the existing electricity network in Falkirk and Lanarkshire includes overhead lines operating at 275kV (275,000 volts) and 132kV (132,000 volts), which transport energy through the region and also serve local communities through Grid Supply Points (GSPs) at Bonnybridge, Cumbernauld, Easterhouse, Newarthill, Coatbridge and Wishaw.
Above: Existing 132kV route between Bonnybridge and Cumbernauld
SP Energy Networks (SPEN) is responsible for the transmission and distribution of electricity in central and southern Scotland. We have an obligation to maintain, operate and invest in our network to secure a safe, reliable, and economic service for current and future customers.
Our planning work with National Grid ESO (Electricity System Operator) has identified that, for the UK to meet its Net Zero carbon emissions targets, the electricity transmission network in central Scotland needs to be capable of transporting more green electricity from Scotland to England and Wales.
To achieve this extra capacity, we need to reinforce the network between Denny and Wishaw. This includes a new north-south overhead transmission line between Bonnybridge substation and a point near Glenmavis, to link up existing overhead lines, allowing the additional green electricity to flow between them and on to the wider transmission network.