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Beauly to Denny: ScotGov to Consider Alternative
Parliamentary answers have revealed that the Scottish Government will consider the option of a subsea cable along the west coast of Scotland before any decision is given on the proposed Beauly to Denny power line.
Tory MSP Murdo Fraser lodged several parliamentary questions on the subject, asking the Scottish Government whether it would, in principle, support a subsea cable along the west coast of Scotland for the transmission of electricity.
In response, Minister for Enterprise and Energy Jim Mather MSP stated: “The Scottish Government believes that subsea electricity transmission options should be explored if we are to fully capitalise on our renewables potential.
“We are therefore involved in two studies, one of which will examine potential grid links from the west coast of Scotland to Ireland. The aim of these studies is to help make the case for long term commercial investment.”
Furthermore, Murdo asked the Scottish Government whether it would consider a subsea cable for the transmission of electricity before any final decision is taken on the Beauly to Denny electricity transmission power line.
In response, the Minister stated: “Scottish Ministers will give full consideration to the report of the Beauly to Denny public inquiry and all other material considerations, including any relating to alternative options such as subsea cables, before determining the application.”
Subsea A Viable Alternative
Commenting, Murdo Fraser said: “It is welcome news that the Scottish Government will consider the option of a subsea cable before a final decision is given on the proposed Beauly to Denny power line. I believe that a subsea cable along the west coast of Scotland is a real and viable alternative to the current proposed Beauly to Denny power line and it is encouraging that a subsea cable will be fully considered.”
He added: “If a subsea cable was constructed instead of the proposed Beauly to Denny power line for the transmission of electricity then it would mean that we will not have to see a giant overhead pylon line cutting through Scotland.
“The proposed route of the Beauly to Denny power line cuts through some of Scotland’s very sensitive landscapes, through one of Scotland’s National Parks and some of Perthshire’s scenic landscape, and will damage Stirling’s famous skyline.”
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