Consultation open on new SSEN community fund
SCOTTISH and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Transmission has opened a consultation on a proposed new community benefit fund which could see money reinvested in areas that host net zero infrastructure, including Shetland.
Shetland community groups and charities stand to be eligible for the potential funding due to the isles hosting the high voltage direct current link to Caithness on the Scottish mainland.
The fund will aim to support projects focused on people, skills and employability, as well as the community and culture of the North of Scotland.
Community groups, non-profits and charities will be able to apply for an expected £20,000 to £50,000.
SSEN Transmission has therefore launched a six-week consultation period with communities that could benefit from the £10 million of funding before it begins talks with Ofgem.
Managing director Rob McDonald said: “Launching a consultation on our first fund in the north of Scotland and recognising the vital role that communities in the region are already playing by hosting critical national infrastructure, is a really big step in the right direction.
“The initial £10m+ will have a lasting positive economic impact and we’re excited to be working with communities and other stakeholders in the region to make sure that investment is made wisely.”
Feedback can be submitted here and will be open until 13 August.
SSEN Transmission does not yet know when applications would open for funding.
It is separate to the £2.2 million a year community benefit fund that will operate once the Viking Energy wind farm is up and running.
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