Four new transformer units are set to be delivered for the project to connect Shetland to the GB transmission network.

The Shetland HVDC link team will take delivery of the first two transformers at their new locations later this week.

The four transformer units – weighing around 168 tonnes each – are key components in the operation of Kergord substation and will play a vital role in the Shetland HVDC link. Once complete, the link will enable the connection of renewable electricity generation and help Shetland's future security of supply.

On Sunday 01 May the first two transformers arrived in Lerwick Harbour from Sweden via specialist vessel MV Eemslift Ellen. The transformers have been loaded onto a multi-axle vehicle with specialist haulier, Allelys, ready to transport the units from Lerwick to their final destination at Kergord.

The first transformer delivery is expected to take place from 10.30pm on Friday 6 May, with the second delivery taking place from 10.30pm on Monday 9 May.

To minimise disruption to local residents, businesses and road users, SSEN Transmission has agreed with Shetland Islands Council and Police Scotland for each of the transformer deliveries to take place overnight, under the guidance and supervision of Police Scotland. The transformer convoy will depart from Lerwick Harbour at approximately 10.30pm and progress along the A970 road before arriving at Kergord.

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Due to their size, the delivery vehicles will be travelling at a reduced speed for safety, and it is expected the journey will take between three and five hours. No road closures are required to facilitate the movement of the transformers, and vehicles should be able to pass the convoy at regular opportunities on the road network under guidance from Police Scotland, when safe to do so.

The second delivery of the remaining two transformers is expected to arrive in June.

Transformers for SSE Renewables' Viking Energy Wind Farm project are also expected to arrive early next month, with a similar arrangement expected to be in place to transport the transformers to the wind farm site. A second transformer delivery for Viking Energy Wind Farm is also planned for early August.

SSEN Transmission Assistant Project Manager Jared Deeney said: "The delivery of the four new transformers from Hitachi Energy is a key milestone in the construction of the Shetland HVDC link.

"The complex delivery has been carefully coordinated by our project teams, working with our specialist haulier, Allelys, Petersons Shetland, Shetland Islands Council and Police Scotland, to ensure disruption can be kept to a minimum for the local community and road users on Shetland.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we transport these transformers onto their final destination in Kergord."

Any changes to the delivery dates of the transformers will be publicised on the Shetland HVDC link project webpage and communicated to local stakeholders, including the media.