The new Static Compensating Transformer (SCT) unit, weighing around 120 tonnes, is a key component in the ongoing development of the substation, which will play a major role in helping to support the connection of new renewable generation in the north of Scotland to the grid and enabling clean energy to be taken from where it is generated to where it is needed.

Teams from SSEN Transmission and principal contractor Siemens BAM have been working since construction began in April 2021 to coordinate a safe delivery and arrival of the key component to the substation, which once installed will help manage the flow of energy across the network.

The specialist transformer unit is being shipped to Dundee quay before being transported to its final location at the new Alyth substation overnight on Saturday 11 February.

To help minimise disruption to local residents, businesses and road users and ensure the transformer unit arrives safely, specialist haulier Allelys has been appointed to transport the unit via convoy using a large 12-axle specialist vehicle under the guidance and supervision of Police Scotland. The transformer convoy will depart from Dundee quay at 7pm on Saturday 11 February under Police Scotland escort and make its way to Alyth substation via the A90 Kingsway East, A94 and B954.

Once arrived at the B954 junction with Balendoch Road, the transformer will be transferred from the 24-axle trailer to a 12-axle trailer and sit overnight. For safety, the junction with Balendoch Road on the B954 will remain closed. At 9am on Sunday 12 February it will then be transported along the U100 to the substation site, allowing the B954 to reopen as before.

Due the transformer’s size, the delivery vehicles will be travelling at a reduced speed for safety, and the journey from Dundee to the overnight stop at the B954 is expected to take up to six hours. Vehicles should be able to pass the convoy at regular opportunities on the road network under guidance from Police Scotland, when safe to do so.

SSEN Transmission lead project manager, Archie Munro, said: “We’re gearing up for the arrival of our 120-tonne SCT transformer – one of the largest components in the Alyth substation project – which marks a major milestone in the construction of this key project on SSEN Transmission’s east coast network.

“The transformer will ultimately enable and manage the flow of energy through the substation and overall network, and it will help accommodate increased renewable generation from across the north of Scotland.

“We’ve taken steps to limit any disruption as much as possible by scheduling the delivery to take place overnight and have been regularly engaging with the local community and stakeholders to advise them of our plans in advance.”

He added: “The complex delivery has been carefully coordinated by our project teams, working with the specialist haulier, Allelys, as well as Dundee Council and Police Scotland, to ensure disruption can be kept to a minimum for the local community and road users in the area.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we transport the transformer to its final location in Alyth.”

The construction of the Alyth substation is part of a wider scheme to upgrade the East Coast transmission network. Once complete it will enable the connection of new renewable generation to the grid, helping to facilitate the transmission to net zero emissions. The project at Alyth is on course to be completed later this year.