The networks division of SSE has submitted to Ofgem its final needs case plans for a subsea cable transmission link from the Shetland Isles to the Scottish mainland.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) proposes a single 600MW subsea circuit from Kergord on Shetland to Noss Head in Caithness on the Scottish mainland, connecting into the Caithness-Moray transmission link which is currently under construction.
Shetland is not currently connected to the mainland transmission system and there is no capacity to connect new electricity generation the network.
A new link is required to enable renewable generators seeking to connect on Shetland to export electricity to the UK market.
The UK government is allowing remote island onshore wind to compete in the next Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction in May 2019, opening an opportunity to progress with the transmission reinforcement, SSEN said.
The link is subject to the success of Shetland renewable developers in the CfD auction and regulatory approval, it added.
SSEN director of transmission Dave Gardner said: “Today marks a significant milestone in providing a transmission connection to Shetland. We believe our proposal represents a robust, economic case for reinforcement and provides the best possible opportunity to unlock Shetland’s renewable potential.
“The submission marks an important first step in the process, however successful delivery will be dependent on sufficient volumes of renewable generation capacity securing a CfD contract to underpin the investment case, in addition to regulatory approval and relevant planning consents.
“We would like to thank our generation customers and wider stakeholders who have helped inform the development of the needs case and we now look forward to working constructively with Ofgem as they review our submission.”
SSEN is also investigating further options to ensure affordable- long term security of supply on Shetland.
It is assessing whether the proposed transmission link represents the best value for Shetland and UK consumers compared with alternative options.
SSEN said it will confirm the findings in the coming months.