Who are SP Energy Networks?
SP Energy Networks is part of the ScottishPower Group. We are responsible for the transmission and distribution of electricity in central and southern Scotland, and, through SP Manweb, the distribution network in North Wales and part of North-West England. Our role is to maintain, operate and invest in our network to secure a safe, reliable, and economic service for current and future consumers.
What statutory obligations does SP Energy Networks have?
Our statutory obligations are set out in the Electricity Act 1989 and in our transmission licence. We must develop and maintain an efficient, coordinated and economical transmission system in accordance with security and quality of supply standards. We must offer to connect new power generators to the system and, make sure any work we do keeps disturbance to the natural and built environment and the people who live in it, work in it or enjoy it to a minimum.
Who regulates SP Energy Networks?
We are regulated by Ofgem (Office of the Gas and Electricity Markets), and independent national regulatory body. Further information about Ofgem is available on:
Why have you selected this site? What alternative sites were looked at?
This site was selected for its proximity to the existing overhead line network which will be needed to energise the substation and proximity to existing road network and minimal soil extraction for earthworks. In addition, the location is further from the Southern Upland Way.
The commercial forestry around the site, this will provide some screening, lessening its visual impact on the local area.
What studies were done to support this site choice?
Initially, a search area was identified which did not have any environmental designations. Within this search area, five site options were assessed. As part of our process, we considered a variety of factors that would lessen our environmental and local impact, while achieving technical objectives and, ultimately enabling us to fulfil our statutory duties.
Ultimately, we settled on our site choice for a balance of these factors.
How much will the project cost?
It is early days and we won’t be able to cost the project fully until we have a definite proposal.
Who is paying for the project?
Ultimately, the cost of our investment in the electricity system is partly borne by consumers through electricity bills, so we are obliged to be economic and efficient. We recover our costs through transmission charges levied by National Grid.
The amount we invest in our networks and the amount we are able to recover is agreed with Ofgem, which is committed to working with industry, governments and consumer groups to deliver a net zero economy at the lowest cost to consumers.
How long will the construction works last?
Construction could take 2 to 3 years.
Have you contacted the landowner(s)?
Affected landowners have been contacted and we will actively engage with them as we develop this project.
How are you contacting local people to keep them informed of the project?
We are informing the community in the following ways:
- Writing to members of the community to inform them of the proposal and public consultation activities.
- Hosting public consultation events in May and then later in the year.
- Advertising the events in the local press
Placing posters about the consultation in public places in and around the community