Letters / A ‘jackpot win’ for Statkraft and no voice for the community
“Although the SIC may be “pleased to announce” yet further negotiations with Statkraft, this time regarding a Scatsta lease, their increased foothold in Shetland should be a cause for concern.
Council to enter Scatsta land lease talks with energy companies
In addition to these latest plans, the company is behind the proposed Energy Isles wind farm in North Yell (massive turbines on active peat bog) and has acquired the approved Beaw Field (South Yell) along with Mossy Hill. They have also submitted a bid for the proposed battery park in Lerwick.
Statkraft, which is state owned by Norway, was recently the subject of protests by the local community (which included Greta Thunberg) for human rights violations.
Despite a ruling by the Norwegian court, the company continues to operate wind farms in the indigenous Sami reindeer herder territory, seriously jeopardising their livelihoods.
Given that the majority of Norwegians are against further local wind farm developments, it must be a jackpot win for Statkraft to realise that their neighbours were available for exploitation along with a compliant and welcoming SIC.
The lack of consultation by our elected representatives means that the Shetland community has no voice, and we are forced to witness the destruction of our precious islands. This is the legacy we are leaving for future generations and surely must be a violation of our human rights.
Save Shetland
Ernie Ramaker
