Shetland is to plug into the UK grid network for the first time ever to source its electricity supplies via a dedicated small-scale HVDC line.
The island cluster off the far north of Scotland will tap mainland generation across a 260km, 60MW cable with on-island backup generation at Gremista.
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks selected the preferred solution following a tender process. It will be delivered, owned and operated by National Grid and Aggreko and will supply power for 20 years.
There is no specific renewables element to the solution but island-based projects will be able to meet local demand as at present. Export to the mainland via the link is also possible.
The line is separate to a planned large-scale HVDC line designed to accommodate commercial renewables such as wind farms and marine energy on Shetland. That project is contingent on UK policy support for island renewables.
Ofgem has been asked to approve the proposal which if approved is scheduled for delivery by the end of 2020.
SSEN said: “Our priority throughout the tender process has been to find the optimum solution in terms of economics, efficiency and reliability to meet Shetland’s long-term electricity needs.”
Consultants supporting the tender included the Fichtner, Renewables Consulting Group, Mott Macdonald, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff, Baringa and CMS.
Image: Shetland Council
