Energy / North Mainland energy park plans to be submitted to Scottish Government for approval
THE DESIGN for an eight-turbine energy park in the North Mainland is set to be submitted to Scottish Government ministers for consent.
Shetland Aerogenerators, which is leading a joint venture on the Neshion Energy Park, said the project had reached an “important milestone”.
The design cleaves closely to one displayed by Neshion at its last public engagement exercise in September 2025.
Eight 200m tall turbines are included in the site plans, along with a proposed substation, potential construction compound and a borrow pit search area.
A 25MW battery energy storage system is also included in the proposals for the energy park, which is expected to generate more than 50MW of electricity.
The final plans will now be submitted to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit for approval.
In its spring newsletter, Neshion said the design “reflects feedback we received from the community, as well as the findings from environmental assessments”.
“We believe it represents the best possible approach, balancing community input, environmental considerations, and project objectives.”
Initial plans for 10 turbines were reduced to eight turbines last year in response to environmental concerns and feedback from the public about the potential visual impact.
The Neshion Energy Park will be sited to the east of Sullom Voe Terminal (SVT) if approved, with Neshion set to provide power for Veri Energy to supply a low carbon fuel plant at SVT in years to come.
Neshion also unveiled plans for a local electricity discount scheme last year, and described it as an “exciting part of the project” in its latest newsletter.
That scheme will see offer eligible homes and businesses in Toft, Brough, Mossbank, Firth and Graven offered a discount on their electricity bills.
Neshion said the programme would offer “real, practical benefits for the local community”.
“Feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with many welcoming the chance to help reduce electricity costs and support households and businesses in the surrounding area,” it said.
“The scheme will be implemented if the project proceeds and remains a key way for Neshion Energy Park to give back locally while supporting the transition to renewable energy.”
Neshion said full details of how the scheme will work will be shared as the project progresses.
Shetland Aerogenerators previously said the scheme would work with any electricity supplier, with the discount either credited directly to the person’s account or as vouchers for pre-payment meters.
Neshion added its project team was continuing to explore options for shared ownership, and was “keen to hear from local groups or organisations who might be interested”.
Shetland Aerogenerators said in September it would offer a five per cent stake in the Neshion project to community groups.
Planning consent is expected in 2027, with construction set to start in 2029. The energy park could then go into operation in 2030, with an expected lifespan of 40 years.
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