Sutherland residents are being bolstered by an enhanced electricity network following a £400,000 investment from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).
Major engineering works have already begun to strengthen the existing circuit running through Rhiconich, Kylesku and Scourie, with the company claiming it provides better connectivity for businesses and residential properties.
The network has pledged that the improvements, worth £409,000, will minimise the risks of power cuts whilst providing greater security of supply to local business and properties across the region.
Colin Pirie, Head of the Highlands and Islands region at SSEN, said: “We invest in our infrastructure to improve and strengthen the resilience of our electricity networks to ensure we continue to deliver a safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity to our customers.
“This investment in Sutherland will upgrade the existing network, installing innovative automated equipment to help us power our communities.
“We are committed to keeping disruption to a minimum as our teams work, but I would encourage any customers in vulnerable situations who may be concerned about the impact of these works to join our Priority Services Register, where 24-hour support is available for those who need extra help.”
During the works, SSEN engineers will replace multiple wooden electricity poles before installing lightning protection, replacing a section of electricity cable and installing automated equipment to speed up restoration times in the event of a power cut.
The improvements are estimated to take up to 11 weeks to complete. Engineers will use mobile generators to maintain power supplies to local businesses, with customers being notified of any changes or interruptions to the network during this time.
