SSEN Transmission has won planning consent for the Lewis Hub grid scheme in the Scottish Western Isles.
The transmission complex, to be located at Arnish Moor on the Isle of Lewis, will include an HVDC converter station and AC substation that will facilitate a 1.8GW interconnector link between the Western Isles and Scottish mainland.
Several renewable energy projects in the region are looking to make use of the export wire.
Construction of the hub is due to begin early next year following the green light from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the network company said.
SSEN Transmission director of development Alison Hall said: “Investing in this local electricity transmission network connection is also a major driver of jobs and economic activity, and we are already seeing the positive impact the Lewis Hub is delivering through new housing and infrastructure upgrades supporting economic and social growth for the islands.
“With the creation of new jobs within SSEN Transmission and our supply chain partners, as well as proposals for community benefit funding and our housing legacy commitments, our projects will deliver a lasting legacy in communities across the north of Scotland including in the Western Isles.
“Today’s decision marks a key milestone in delivering UK and Scottish government energy targets – creating a hub for clean energy projects that will help build a cleaner, more secure and affordable electricity system for generations to come.”
The company’s lead development project manager Colin Bell added: “Today’s decision is the culmination of a detailed development process where we have sought to achieve the best balance from a community, environmental and technical perspective, listening closely to the views of the local community with whom we have consulted extensively.
“Our move from the original Creed North site to Arnish Moor demonstrates our willingness to listen and act on feedback, and we thank everyone who engaged with us during our pre-application consultations, which were vital in shaping our proposals.
“We will continue to engage constructively with the local community throughout the lifetime of this project, as we fulfil our commitment to being a good neighbour and delivering a positive legacy.”