The approval follows a planning process that started in 2005 and a public inquiry that began in 2007. The transmission line is said to be helpful in harnessing up to half of Scotland’s energy from renewable sources. ScottishPower and Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) are the power companies behind the scheme.
Frank Mitchell, director of ScottishPower Energy Networks, said: “The Beauly to Denny power line upgrade is essential to help Scotland achieve its renewable energy potential.
“All aspects of the proposal have been thoroughly scrutinised over the last three years and we are pleased that the Scottish government has approved the upgrade. We will now carefully consider the details of the consent document.”
ScottishPower has been granted planning permission to upgrade the 20km section of the 220km line that lies within the company’s network area. The 20km section extends from the north of Stirlingshire to Denny near Falkirk.
