Energy / SSEN Transmission outlines plans for second subsea cable
Photo: SSEN Transmission
PLANS TO build a second, much larger, high voltage link between Shetland and the Scottish mainland are moving forward with pace.
The 1.8GW subsea cable, plus associated onshore infrastructure near Scatsta or Sullom Voe, would connect two proposed large floating offshore wind farms to the east of Shetland to the national grid.
A meeting hosted by the Delting Community Council at the Mossbank school last night (Tuesday) was the first of a series of community engagement meetings held by electricity network operator SSEN Transmission.
These will be followed by more formal statutory consultation as part of the planning process. However, the second cable has already been provisionally approved by energy regulator Ofgem – after the need for it had been identified by the National Grid Electricity System Operator (the ESO) as part of its Beyond 2030 report published in spring this year.
At the meeting last night, those attending expressed concern about the impact this latest energy infrastructure development will have on the islands.
Infrastructure is expected to include a new HVDC converter station and Alternating Current (AC) substation to help connect new renewable energy generation and transmit it via the second link. There is also a requirement to connect this new hub to the existing substation at Kergord.
SSEN Transmission said its teams are starting early engagement with communities to help gather useful information, local knowledge and views to help ensure the onshore infrastructure for the project is appropriately located.
The company’s community liaison manager Thea Groat said: “The proposed second Shetland HVDC Link remains in the very early stages of development and will be subject to extensive and meaningful formal consultation with local communities and wider stakeholders.
“To help inform the early development of these projects, we are eager to hear from communities across Shetland to help take on board initial thoughts, feedback and key local knowledge to help shape our proposals in these crucial early phases.
“These projects are crucial in the fight against climate change, to enhance local and national energy security and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and will play a major role in helping to secure power for current and future generations.
“They will also unlock significant economic benefits, supporting local business and jobs, where we are committed to build on the positive economic impacts of the first Shetland HVDC link and deliver a lasting legacy for current and future generations.”
Become a member of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider paying for membership to get additional features and services: -
- Remove non-local ads;
- Bookmark posts to read later;
- Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
- Hide membership messages;
- Comments open for discussion.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.
Already a member? Sign in to hide this message.
