SP Energy Networks is asking people in Lanarkshire to share their views on proposals to upgrade the electricity infrastructure in their area.
SP Energy Networks (SPEN) first consulted on the Denny-Wishaw project in 2021 and is now asking local people and stakeholders for their feedback on revised plans.
The Denny-Wishaw Network Upgrade project would see work to increase the voltage of electricity travelling across a 35km section of the route by removing cables currently in place and replacing them with higher capacity cables, with work including refurbishment of pylons already in place.
Five substations would also be expanded to increase their capacity and to improve the connections to the overhead network.
Fiona Muir, Project Manager at SP Energy Networks, said: “The work across central Scotland is vital in strengthening the UK’s electricity transmission network. It helps improve energy security and contribute towards Scotland’s, and the rest of the UK’s, net zero targets.
“We’ve developed a package of investment to replace, upgrade and add new infrastructure into the network across Falkirk and North Lanarkshire and we want to hear from local residents about our plans to help us develop these proposals further.
“Engaging with local communities is essential for us so we hope that people will get in touch; either by attending one of the public exhibitions in their area, or by contacting us directly.”
Britain is moving towards an all electric future as more homes and business have their power needs, including heating and transport, met by electricity.
This will make the resilience and security of the electricity network vitally important and requires additional infrastructure to support it and its role transporting green electricity from where it was generated to where it is needed.
Projects like the Denny to Wishaw Upgrade are part of this work which will see the biggest rewiring of the GB electricity grid since its inception, strengthening energy security and supporting economic growth.
The work will also increase the resilience of the electricity network in the local area, bringing more power to communities for when people need it.
The work being consulted on includes enhancements to infrastructure in Airdrie, Cumbernauld, Glenmavis and Newarthill, as well as in Denny and Wishaw.
SP Energy Networks plans to hold two rounds of public consultation on the proposals.
These are:
- Newarthill Community Facility on Wednesday, January 29, from 2pm to 7pm.
- Muirfield Community Centre on Thursday, January 30, from 4pm to 8pm.
- Pather Community Centre on Friday, January 31, from 2pm to 7pm.
- Gartcosh Social Club on Tuesday, February 4, from 2pm to 7pm.
- Glenmavis Community Facility on Tuesday, February 6, from 2pm to 7pm.
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