News / First converter station approved
A PLANNING decision on a massive converter station necessary to export electricity from the proposed Viking Energy windfarm via 200 miles subsea cable to the Scottish mainland will not be made before June, it emerged last night (Thursday).
On Wednesday the converter station at the other end of the cable at Blackhillock, near Keith, was approved by councillors in Moray.
Yesterday, the chairman of Shetland Islands Council’s planning board, Frank Robertson, said officials were still waiting for additional information from applicant Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission Limited (SHETL).
He said the board had to consider a planning application for the site at Upper Kergord, but also a works licence application for the cable coming ashore in Weisdale Voe.
Mr Robertson said the applications would be considered at the planning board meeting on 2 June at the earliest.
A number of organisations and individuals have objected to the converter station to be built in the valley.
Yesterday, a spokesman for Viking Energy welcomed Moray Council’s decision as a “positive move” and added that the Blackhillock converter station was part of the overall infrastructure for the proposed 540 megawatt wind farm project.
The chairman of Moray Council’ planning committee Stewart Cree is reported as saying that the construction of the converter station would bring welcome economic benefit to the town of Keith.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
