Scotland has bid farewell to its oldest electricity transmission line as SP Energy Networks dismantles 62 steel towers that have powered homes and industries for nearly a century.
The ‘G-Route’ line, constructed in 1929, originally linked coal-fired power stations in Dellingburn, Yoker and Braehead, following the 1926 Electricity Act that launched Britain’s nationwide grid.
Back then, just 6% of households had access to electricity and the Act aimed to standardise infrastructure and expand energy access across the country.
Initially built to power shipyards and heavy industry, the line later served 70,000 homes and businesses including major facilities like the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
It was officially switched off at the end of 2024.
Now, 182 wooden ‘Trident’ poles have replaced the steel towers, delivering a more resilient and modern service tailored to the evolving energy demands of the region.
The poles’ design is suited to the circuit’s requirements and supports the electrification of homes and businesses.
Richard Wylie, Lead Design Engineer at SP Energy Networks, said: “These transformative towers helped open up access to electricity to those who had never had it before. A century on, we’re undertaking the greatest rewiring of the network since it was built.”
He added that SP Energy Networks’ £10.6 billion investment plan will revolutionise homes once again, making all-electric living – including heat pumps and EVs – the new standard powered by clean, renewable energy.
