More than 70% of stakeholders have expressed support for SSEN Transmission's innovative Community Benefit Fund plans, marking a groundbreaking step toward directly involving local communities in the benefits of hosting transmission network infrastructure.
SSEN Transmission will now enter a phase of refining its Community Benefit Fund plans, with a commitment to engaging with individual organizations for further insights, as indicated in the responses received. The company's actions align with the forthcoming recommendations from the UK Government and guidance resulting from its recent consultation, anticipated to be published later this year. A formal launch of the inaugural Community Benefit Fund is expected in 2024.
Upon establishment, the fund is set to allocate over £10 million to contribute to a sustainable and positive legacy for communities hosting significant net-zero infrastructure assets in the Highlands, Aberdeenshire, Orkney, Shetland, Angus, and Argyll.
Earlier this year, SSEN Transmission initiated a comprehensive consultation seeking input on its maiden community benefit scheme. The company's approach involves collaboration with communities across northern Scotland to direct funds toward essential local projects.
The transmission network in northern Scotland is poised to deliver more than 15% of the UK's total carbon reduction required to meet the 2050 net-zero targets. Recognizing the critical role played by local communities in hosting essential infrastructure, SSEN Transmission is dedicated to ensuring that the funds acknowledge and support this vital contribution.
The six-week consultation, engaging stakeholders from various sectors in northern Scotland, garnered approximately 140 responses from local residents, authorities, and other interested parties. A detailed report, reflecting robust support for the fund proposals, has been published by the company. With over 70% of respondents expressing their backing for the initiative, the feedback received provides valuable on-the-ground insights and demonstrates a collective desire for the best possible outcomes for communities falling within the proposed scope of the fund.
