Construction starts on the Spittal-Peterhead underwater cable connection.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Transmission (SSEN Transmission) has begun construction on the Spittal to Peterhead subsea cable, creating a vital energy connection between Caithness and Aberdeenshire.

Once finished, the 2GW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link will provide a dependable and efficient route for electricity from renewable sources to reach consumers across the country.

This project will play a key role in advancing Scotland and the UK’s objectives for clean energy and improved energy security.

Local contractors Nicol of Skene and John Gunn and Sons are handling onshore cable work at Rattray Head near Peterhead and Sinclair’s Bay in Caithness, respectively.

At Rattray Head, Nicol of Skene has commenced horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and duct installation to prepare for the onshore cable work.

Construction of the main works compound is also in progress.

Current activities include access, compound construction, and power connections, with landfall HDD slated for this summer to facilitate the installation of the marine cable.

In Caithness, John Gunn and Sons is advancing early enabling works.

They have launched main construction efforts including access road and HDD tasks, and the main works compound is anticipated to be operational soon.

SSE Transmission Spittal to Peterhead project director Niall MacLeod stated: “We are making significant progress across the Spittal to Peterhead Link, demonstrating the effective collaboration between SSEN Transmission, principal contractor NKT, and our partners Nicol of Skene and John Gunn and Sons.

“Strong working relationships within the project team are ensuring safe, high-quality construction on site and establishing solid foundations for the project's next phase.

“The ongoing momentum seen in both the northern and southern segments of the route showcases what can be accomplished through effective planning, strong leadership, and collaborative partnerships, all while prioritizing safety in all activities.

“With main works now underway, the project is steadily progressing towards the initiation of landfall HDD activities this summer.”

Last month, Grid Electricity Transmission and SSEN Transmission finalized contracts with Hitachi Energy and NKT for the Eastern Green Link 3 electricity transmission project in the UK.