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Ofgem decision ‘great news’

Published: 15/12/2022

Ofgem’s decision today (15 December) to approve a new 1.8GW link between the mainland and the Outer Hebrides has been described by HIE as ‘great news’ for the region and the result of ‘tremendous efforts by stakeholders’.

Stuart Black, HIE chief executive (credit: John Paul)

The approval was part of Ofgem’s decision on the Accelerated Strategic Investment (ASTI) framework to deliver Government’s 2030 offshore wind target of 50GW.

HIE chief executive, Stuart Black, welcomed the news this morning. He said:

“Clearly this is great news, not just for the Outer Hebrides, but for Scotland and the UK. Stakeholders have made tremendous efforts over many years to make the case for this approval and we’re absolutely delighted to achieve this crucial milestone.

“This will unlock the potential of island wind projects that have been consented for several years. These ‘shovel-ready’ projects will create a great many jobs. In the longer term, ScotWind projects will be able to connect and opportunities for marine energy can be realised. In short, it could be transformational for the economy of the islands and local communities.

“SSE Transmission can now start their procurement process to have the link built and operational by 2030. We very much look forward to working with them and other stakeholders to move the project forward and secure benefits for business and communities across the Outer Hebrides.”

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