The Shetland Islands are witnessing a significant economic boost thanks to two major clean energy projects spearheaded by SSE Renewables and SSEN Transmission. These projects—the Viking Wind Farm and a 260-kilometre subsea cable—are not only pivotal for Shetland’s renewable energy landscape but also for its local economy, contributing a staggering £125 million.
The Viking Wind Farm, a landmark project featuring 103 turbines, has injected £80 million into the Shetland economy. This wind farm is set to become one of the largest in the UK, and its impact on the local community is already being felt. During the peak of its construction, the wind farm created 400 jobs, significantly bolstering employment in the region. Moreover, 35 full-time positions have been established to manage the ongoing operation and maintenance of the wind farm, ensuring long-term economic benefits for the area.
In addition to the wind farm, a 260-kilometre subsea cable has been laid, connecting Shetland to the Great Britain mainland electricity grid for the first time. This crucial infrastructure project has contributed £45 million to the local economy and created 250 jobs during its construction phase. This connection is a vital step towards integrating Shetland’s renewable energy into the broader UK grid, enhancing energy security and supporting the UK’s net-zero targets.
Beyond immediate economic gains, SSE Renewables has established the Viking Community Fund, projected to inject an additional £72 million into the local economy over the wind farm’s lifetime. This fund is designed to support community initiatives, further embedding the benefits of renewable energy projects into the fabric of Shetland’s society.
With the Viking Wind Farm and the Shetland HVDC link set to begin full commercial operations in the coming weeks, the future looks bright for Shetland’s role in the UK’s renewable energy sector.
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Tolga Aramaz is the Director of Learn Trade Skills (LTS), a family-run training centre specialising in electrical installations. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the electrical industry, Tolga is known for their exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering outstanding results. They provide valuable insights and guidance to electricians, contractors, and businesses, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety protocols. Through engaging training programmes and consultancy services, Tolga empowers professionals to excel in their roles, fostering long-term relationships built on professionalism and customer satisfaction.
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