Strathglass Community Council Challenges SSEN Substation Approval Over Wildfire Risks
Strathglass Community Council is contesting the Highland Council's approval of a substation by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) due to concerns over wildfire hazards and peatland degradation. The site, near Glen Affric, is within a high wildfire risk zone, raising significant environmental and safety issues.
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The Highland Council approved an SSEN substation project in February 2026 despite local opposition over its wildfire risk and environmental impact. The substation is located 150 meters from Glen Affric National Nature Reserve and within an area previously affected by wildfires, including a significant incident in 2023.
Strathglass Community Council argues that SSEN's site selection process was flawed, as it did not consider a compact gas insulated switchgear (GIS) design that would reduce fire risks and minimize peatland disruption. Experts emphasize the increased fire risk posed by open-air substations, which could exacerbate wildfire conditions in the area. The community is requesting a review of the planning conditions to address these concerns effectively.
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