Overhead wires still the best way to go

A spokesperson for SSEN has said their overhead power lines provided a secure and cost-effective way of safely distributing electricity to customers .

She insisted there had been no change of policy by the company and added:“We understand that in some officially designated beauty spots, some people may feel the lines have a detrimental impact on the natural environment. Undergrounding overhead lines can be expensive and can often cause more damage to the environment than wooden poles or towers. We need to carefully consider each nominated area, working with other utilities, landowners and public bodies to plan and identify the best areas to carry out this work.

“We want to consult with our communities to find out which areas and short sections of the network they would prefer to be replaced with underground cables to help enhance the visual appeal of the landscape.

“By finding out and understanding what matters most to members of our communities, it means we can make sure we are investing in the right areas where we know it will truly make a difference.”

SSEN’s distribution businesses are investing over £15million in a project to underground 90 kilometres of overhead lines in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, National Parks and National Scenic Areas in the north of Scotland and central southern England.

Its transmission business is running a scheme to help reduce the visual impact infrastructure on the countryside and will use for the work part of a £500m fund established by the energy regulator Ofgem.

Electricity infrastructure located across Scotland, including some in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, has been identified for the mitigation.