SSEN Transmission, the electricity transmission network operator in northern Scotland, has announced a significant investment in housing aimed at supporting its workforce and fostering local communities. The $10.2 million initiative expects to build 147 new homes. Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis will soon be home to 100 new homes, and in Brechin, Angus, 47 new homes will be built. This new development will provide housing for those workers. They will play a part in building the recently proposed 66-mile-long (106 km) Kintore to Tealing 400kV overhead line.
SSEN Transmission has very ambitious plans for the new houses. They will necessarily become assets to provide much-needed social and affordable housing! Part of the company’s wider aim to help build 1,000 homes in Scotland. One of the goals of the initiative is to set a standard positive example for their workforce. It aims to assist neighboring communities that are experiencing housing crises.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes welcomed the project, acknowledging the benefits that can come from SSEN Transmission’s investment.
“Scotland’s enormous renewables capabilities offer an unprecedented opportunity to create jobs and deliver economic growth across our local, regional and national economies for decades to come.” – Kate Forbes
Rob McDonald, managing director of SSEN Transmission, said the company was passionate about the opportunity to leave a positive legacy in the area for generations to come.
“We are committed to a positive legacy across the north of Scotland from the grid upgrades needed to achieve energy security and clean power.” – Rob McDonald
The housing initiative further energizes SSEN Transmission’s bold proposals to replace and retrofit energy infrastructure. This includes the development of a proposed subsea cable connecting the Western Isles to mainland Scotland. This cable allows costly wind power produced by the islands’ offshore wind farms to get a larger market share. Moreover, it connects that energy directly onto the national grid.
McDonald echoed the importance of all these housing developments. They are integral to producing genuine outcomes from the firm’s pledge to support local advancement.
“These first two announcements of new housing in Stornoway and Brechin are all about turning our determination to deliver into bricks and mortar.” – Rob McDonald
The investment in local housing not only shows SSEN Transmission’s commitment to energy security but the well-being of communities it resides in. The company is taking local housing needs into account. This unique approach goes beyond creating a sustainable operating environment for workers and it positively spurs economic growth across the area it serves.
