Second 130 tonne transformer set to head to Rothienorman
A second huge piece of substation equipment is set to take to north-east roads on Sunday, with drivers advised of potential delays as it travels through the region.
At 8am on Sunday, November 13, a 130 tonne heavy transformer will be departing from Commercial Quay, Aberdeen travelling to Rothienorman on the following route - Commercial Quay; A956; A96; A920; B992; Rothienorman
There will likely be delays and road users should plan ahead to avoid disruption where possible as the special 12-axle vehicle moves under police escort.
Due to the size of the transformer, the delivery vehicle will be travelling at a reduced speed for safety, and it is expected the journey will take between three and five hours. No road closures are required to facilitate the movement of the transformers, and vehicles should be able to pass the convoy at regular opportunities on the road network under guidance from Police Scotland, when safe to do so.
SSEN Transmission Project Manager Arthur Sinakov said: “We’re gearing up for the second and final delivery of our major supergrid transformers, which are key components in our ongoing Phase Two development at Rothienorman Substation.
“The first transformer was successfully delivered with minimal impact to road users last month, and safely arrived at the site in just under three hours from Aberdeen Quay. The second unit will be delivered in the exact same planned route as before, and we aim to complete the complex delivery as quickly and safely as we can.
“As ever we want to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we transport these transformers onto their final location in Rothienorman.”
Working with principal contractor Balfour Beatty, the project involves upgrading the existing infrastructure at the substation from 275 kilovolts (kV) to 400kV.
This increased capacity will help accommodate the connection of more renewable generation from across the north of Scotland, playing a key role in the transition to net zero emissions.
