SSEN Transmission and Highland Renewables join forces to boost sustainable tourism in the Highlands
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Transmission has become the main sponsor of Highland Renewables, in a deal that supports investment aimed at making the Highlands a world-leading destination for sustainable tourism.
As a sponsor, SSEN Transmission joins close to 200 ambassadors working towards a mission to develop the region as a premium destination, with a focus on investment that protects the environment while boosting economic growth.
Highland Renewables is a strategic partner of Highland Tourism CIC, a social enterprise established in March 2020 that brings together two of the Highland’s key economic sectors, tourism and renewables. The alliance supports investment in the region and aims to attract a new generation of tourists seeking more sustainable destinations, while reinforcing the position of the renewables industry as a dynamic contributor to the broader Highland economy.
SSEN Transmission is already making a significant investment in the Highlands through its £20bn Pathway to 2030 programme, which will transform the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland, unlocking its potential as a renewable energy powerhouse and bringing jobs and investment to the region.
The programme will enable thousands of skilled, green jobs across the north of Scotland, with multi-million-pound contracts with local supply chain partners and, subject to Government guidance and regulatory approval, over £100m of investment in community benefit funding.
It also commits to contribute to the development of at least 200 properties in the area, which will provide accommodation for local people when the transmission infrastructure projects are completed – delivering a lasting legacy for future generations. At the same time, SSEN Transmission is also committed to delivering Biodiversity Net Gain on all its projects.
Christianna Logan, Director of Customers and Stakeholders at SSEN Transmission, said:
“We are delighted to be announced as Highland Renewables’ main sponsor, helping drive forward its mission to boost the sustainable tourism economy in the region.
“Through our Pathway to 2030 programme, SSEN Transmission is already investing heavily in the Highlands, bringing benefits to communities through jobs and investment that supports economic development while protecting biodiversity and helping Scotland and the UK meet its net zero ambitions.
“This partnership is testament to our commitment to unlock Scotland’s renewable energy potential and promote economic development in the region, including activities to support sustainable tourism.”
Yvonne Crook, Chair of Highland Tourism CIC and Highland Renewables said:
“We welcome the support from SSEN Transmission enabling the community interest company to drive forward the vision, positioning the Highlands as a global leader in sustainable destination development.
“The initial integration of tourism and renewables will be succeeded by a pioneering combination of whisky, food & drink, life sciences and land and estates in a holistic strategy aimed at enhancing the economic position of the Highlands.
“This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen the economic position of the Highlands, whilst preserving the cultural heritage and safeguarding the environment, making the Highlands a world leading sustainable destination management leader. We’re looking forward to working with SSEN Transmission to take this exciting vision forward together.”
George Baxter, Director of Development at GreenPower and founding partner of Highland Renewables said:
“This new support and investment from SSEN Transmission firmly positions Highland Renewables as a key organisation in support of an ambitious vision for the Highlands. Delivering vital jobs, enabling action on climate change and developing a sustainable economy and environment. It’s got to happen, and I am delighted to welcome SSEN Transmission on board.”
Charlotte Wright, Board Director at Highland Tourism CIC said:
“It has been inspiring to be part of enabling this world leading vision and see the significant level of private sector investment and energy from the community making it happen. The support of organisations like SSEN Transmission are invaluable.”
