Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission (SHE Transmission) proposes to develop and deploy a New Suite of Transmission Structures (NeSTS).
Overhead lines (OHLs) built using transmission structures are the most visible element of the transmission network. The impact OHLs have on the environment can cause stakeholders concern.
The only available alternative to the steel lattice structures traditionally used in OHL construction is the T-Pylon. Developed by National Grid, the T-Pylon reduces the visual impact of OHLs but may be unsuited to areas with challenging terrain and propensity for severe weather events.
Establishing new infrastructure in these areas is essential to connect renewable generation, so there is a need for a new type of structure to address stakeholder concern.
The NeSTS project will develop innovative designs for OHL structures based on new technologies and techniques. The new suite of structures will then be deployed on the transmission network.
The NeSTS Project seeks to prove the following benefits:
- Improved OHL environmental performance by lowering visual and construction impacts; and
- Lower OHL whole life asset costs via reduced land, construction, maintenance and outage requirements.