Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD) has submitted proposals to meet Shetland’s future energy requirements to the energy regulator Ofgem.
SHEPD owns and operates the electricity distribution network in the north of Scotland and - because Shetland is not connected to the mainland electricity network - also balances electricity supplied by the islands’ generators to meet demand from homes and businesses.
A plan was submitted to Ofgem on 31 July 2013 that sets out the evidence for replacing the existing power station at lerwick to maintain security of supply for homes and businesses. The proposals require approval from Ofgem.
The oldest part of the station was built in 1953 and is becoming a challenge to run and ensure environmental compliance.
SHEPD’s plan proposes a new power station located north of Lerwick, near Rova Head, to be fully operational in 2017. Since initial consultation took place last year, detailed environmental studies have been carried out to understand potential impacts of the proposal.
As well as the proposal to replace Lerwick power station, the plan also outlines the potential contribution from renewables and SHEPD’s Northern Isles New Energy Solutions (NINES) which will help facilitate the connection of additional renewable generation and manage customer demand to help reduce the size and cost of a new station.
Rodney Grubb, SHEPD’s Head of Operations said: “These proposals provide a robust solution to maintaining security and reliability of supply on Shetland on a long term basis. They include a range of innovative developments, which taken together, make a considerable contribution to meet Shetland's current and future energy requirements.”