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 Redshaw substation 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?

In June 2023 we consulted local people on our initial proposals, and since then we have continued talking to stakeholders and conducting technical and environmental studies.

We have now refined our plans and we are holding a second round of public consultation in March and April 2025 so local people can give us their views.

For more details please see the ‘Have your say’ page of this website.

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.