On 5 April, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) published a summary of its ‘whole system’ recommendation to secure Shetland’s future energy needs.
Shetland distribution system operator Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD) is working to safeguard security of supply in Shetland with the anticipated closure of Lerwick Power Station before 2025.
SHEPD has proposed a transmission link to Shetland from the Scottish mainland, with the value of the financial contribution based on costs saved by avoiding the replacement of parts of the existing island networks.
Managing Director for Networks Colin Nicol said: “Our whole system solution presents an opportunity to secure Shetland’s future security of supply at a saving of around £140m to GB electricity bill payers. If approved, our whole system principle will also improve the economics of connecting Scotland’s two other major island groups, Orkney and the Western Isles.”
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