ScottishPower Energy Networks has announced the completion of its £15 million investment project in Glasgow, installing a “state-of-the-art” substation at the First Bus Caledonia Depot, as part of it’s Green Recovery Fund.
The substation, situated on Cathcart Road, will help keep 300 electric buses in the city running.
SP Energy Networks also stated it had invested in the area around the SEC (which hosted the 2021 climate conference, COP26) to “futureproof” the electricity network for both homes and business on either side of the River Clyde.
“We are delighted to have continued our collaborative work with SP Energy Networks in a way that will benefit the local community. The electricity created by this new substation will not only help to power our bus network but will also be used to power homes and businesses across the south side of Glasgow,” said Duncan Cameron, managing director of First Bust Scotland.
“The electricity from the new substation at our Caledonia depot will allow us to charge 300 zero emission buses at any one time, ensuring we can keep pushing forward in our 2035 Zero Emission Mission and continue to build upon our ever-increasing fleet of zero emission buses that is serving the people and communities of Glasgow.”
According to SP Energy Networks, it has invested over £3 billion in the communities it serves, with two substations now energised in time for the RIIO-ED2 price control period.
“This investment has clear benefits not only for Glaswegians but for people across the country,” said Craig Arthur, distribution licence director at SP Energy Networks.
“People can now travel to events at the SEC and around the city using electric buses, thanks to greener energy – this investment is making a real difference to everyday life in Glasgow and transforming the city’s green infrastructure. SP Energy Networks is proud to be leading the way to a greener future.
“Our investment forms part of Ofgem’s £300 million Green Recovery Investment Project, which funds schemes supporting the transition to net zero. This is part of its commitment to leading the way towards a cleaner, greener future for all.”
The completion of the project follows a £2.1 million upgrade to an West London electricity network conducted by SP Energy Networks to reinforce and modernise its capability.