Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Shetland wind farm to energise homes
Friday 30 August 2024
Exciting developments on the Shetland Islands have put the UK on the map for clean energy initiatives. Two major projects have been successfully completed, promising to deliver sustainable power to homes and businesses across the country.
SSE Renewables’ Viking Wind Farm stands tall as a beacon of hope, harnessing the power of Shetland’s winds to become the most efficient onshore wind farm in the UK. This monumental project will significantly boost the UK’s total wind capacity to over 30GW, capable of meeting the energy demands of 26 million households annually and slashing carbon emissions by over 35 million tonnes each year.
On the other hand, SSEN Transmission’s impressive 260km subsea link is set to revolutionise the transportation of electricity between the Shetland Islands and the British mainland. Together, these two initiatives represent a staggering £1 billion investment by companies under the SSE Group umbrella.
UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband expressed his enthusiasm for the successful launch of Viking Wind Farm, stating, ‘By activating Viking, countless homes in the Shetland Islands and beyond will benefit from affordable, locally-produced energy – a project that has not only created job opportunities but also fostered economic growth in local communities.’
‘This development underscores the urgent need for similar projects to position Britain as a powerhouse in clean energy. It is the reason we swiftly lifted the ban on onshore wind farms within our first 72 hours in Government.’
‘These initiatives play a critical role in our commitment to clean energy by 2030, steering us away from the uncertainties of fossil fuel markets, enhancing our energy independence, and safeguarding consumers.’
During peak construction periods, the projects provided employment for approximately 650 individuals and injected £125 million into the local Shetland economy. With ongoing operations, the wind farm is projected to sustain 35 permanent positions, while the Viking community fund is anticipated to contribute upwards of £70 million to the local economy over the wind farm’s lifespan.
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