FAQs

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). Further information about Ofgem is available on:

• www.ofgem.gov.uk
• Calling Ofgem's Consumer Affairs team on 020 7901 7295
• Emailing consumeraffairs@ofgem.gov.uk.

Why is the Denny to Wishaw Network Upgrade needed?

Much of the electricity transmission network in Scotland was first built in the 1920s. Since then it has grown and evolved to meet industrial needs and serve the expanding population, but the network in the south of Scotland will soon be at full capacity – unable to accommodate all of the clean, green renewable energy we will all need in future.

Around 2GW (gigawatts) of new renewable energy is expected to connect to the transmission network in this area in future.

A new high-voltage substation at Redshaw is essential to create sufficient extra network capacity. It will also strengthen the regional power network so it can cope with any unexpected faults in future.

What exactly are you proposing?

The Redshaw 400kV substation project will involve a range of new infrastructure including: : 

• A new 400kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) substation building, which will house gas insulated switchgear and plant (85m x 45m)
• A second GIS substation building which will house gas insulated electrical switchgear and plan (30m x 20M)
• A small distribution substation building to provide ancillary power, lighting, heating and ventilation
• 4 x 360MVA transformers
• A new permanent access track from the local public road to the substation compound
• Internal access roads and vehicle parking
• A new 3m high steel palisade security fence and internal fencing around the live compound.

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 will pay for this 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 are we consulting local people?

We are planning two rounds of public consultation before we submit our planning application to South Lanarkshire Council.

The first round of consultation, from Monday 5th June until Friday 30th June will include three public events:

Tuesday 20th June, 2pm to 7.30pm: The Old Schoolhouse,Abington ML12 6SD

Wednesday 21st June, 2pm to 7.30pm: St Brides Centre, Douglas ML11 0PT

Thursday 22nd June, 2pm to 7.30pm: Crawfordjohn Hall,Crawfordjohn ML12 6SR

Following this first round of consultation we will develop a detailed design, access routes and working areas. We will publish a report summarising the feedback received in this first round of consultation and how this has influenced our proposals.

We will then hold a second round of public consultation, so that people can give us their views on the detailed design. We will also carry out a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment at this stage.

After considering feedback received in the second round of consultation, we will finalise our proposals and submit a planning application to South Lanarkshire council.

Are you consulting landowners?

Yes, we will be talking to owners and occupiers of land that might be affected by our preferred route. If you believe that your land may be affected and you have not yet heard from us, please contact us.