SP Energy Networks has announced the completion of a £34million investment project in Edinburgh, as part of a scheme to reinforce the electricity network across the city and the Lothians to support the uptake of greener energy solutions.

The investment at Currie substation will help to future-proof the power grid for generations to come, supporting the transition to new green technology like electric vehicles and heating that will be crucial to the Scottish Government's ambitious net zero emissions targets.

The Currie substation, which was originally built in the 1950s, has been modernised by replacing old technology that had reached the end of its operational lifespan.


The work carried out included the use of environmentally friendly gas as an insulator, making it one of the greenest substations in the country. Old oil circuit breakers were replaced with modern alternatives, while degraded concrete structures have given way to galvanised steel.

The project, which started in early 2017, will contribute to a resilient energy supply to over 90,000 homes and businesses across Edinburgh and the Lothians including Livingston, Broxburn and South Queensferry.

Pearse Murray, SP Transmission Director at SP Energy Networks, said: "The £34million upgrade project we've completed in Currie is part of a major investment programme we are undertaking to ensure our transmission network can deliver a secure and reliable service now and far into the future.

"I'm very proud of the work the team has carried out, which ensures that strategic hubs like Currie continue to play a vital role in our work to deliver clean, green energy throughout our network."

Currie substation joins a number of other substations across the country that have been upgraded to become more environmentally friendly, with similar work planned at more substations.