Really valuable discussion with Gary Hughes from SSEN Transmission at a vibrant All-Energy Glasgow! 🗣️ The atmosphere was buzzing, with key speakers like Kate Forbes and Keith Aspen highlighting the critical importance of bringing communities along on the net-zero journey.

Gary emphasized that as SSEN Transmission invests a significant £22 billion in infrastructure, genuine community engagement is paramount. This isn’t just about building; it’s about creating shared benefits through maximizing local supply chain spend (with great examples like Davey Smith’s multi-million pound contract creating local jobs), implementing social value plans focused on skills development and volunteering, and proactively addressing housing challenges in the rural communities where they operate.

Their dedicated housing team is exploring solutions like contributing to new affordable housing – a crucial step given Scotland’s housing emergency.
A key highlight was the Community Benefit Fund, guided by recent UK government directives. SSEN Transmission is committed to working with communities to understand their priorities, with the fund expected to exceed £100 million in the coming years.

They’ve already started, supporting impactful projects like a sustainable construction center at the University of Highlands and Islands and a mentoring program for disengaged youth. 1 Importantly, an independent panel ensures the funding has a real and lasting impact.

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