Letters / Ignored once again
The Call to overcome Viking division (SN 24/09/24) did not get off to a very good start.
In preparing their report the Just Transmission Commission appears to have mainly communicated with vested interests whilst the people who are going to have to live amongst all the proposed energy developments look likely to be ignored once again.
Clearly, lessons from Viking have yet to be learned and, judging by the many negative comments on social media, divisions in the community are likely to remain.
It is interesting to note that the emphasis in the commission report is on economics, and the so-called benefits of green energy scarcely merit a mention.
It would seem that Voar believes that the pathway to a just transition can be achieved by offering financial inducements. What price is peace and tranquillity?
As usual, claims for the renewable potential on and around Shetland by Voar are exaggerated: “Viking is likely to be one of the most efficient wind farms on Earth, thanks to the strength and consistency of Shetland’s wind.”
It is a shame that, currently, its connection to the national grid is inefficient and that it stands idle regularly.
Voar have an interest in further renewable developments here, but do they have the best interests of Shetland people at heart?
It rather looks as though they are trying to attract more and more business to Shetland, whether we like it or not.
We have to hope that most of the proposals for excessive industrialisation on and around Shetland will not prove to be viable and that we get no more than the already consented projects.
A just transition may well prove to be elusive as there will always be winners and losers in any developments.
Frank Hay
Chair
Sustainable Shetland
Call to overcome Viking division to secure future community wealth building
