The new 'Pathway to 2030' publication, from National Grid ESO, has confirmed the requirement for a 1.8GW HVDC subsea link from the Western Isles to the north of Scotland mainland.

The new link, which has been identified as one of the key investments across GB that is required to meet 2030 offshore wind targets, marks a major step forward in unlocking the renewable energy potential of the Western Isles.

The 1.8GW link will be sufficient to accommodate all known onshore and offshore wind in and around the Western Isles, including the two ScotWind sites in closest proximity to the islands, with some additional capacity to support future renewable generation developments. This new link will therefore replace SSEN Transmission's previous proposal for a 600MW HVDC subsea link.

Constructing a link of this scale will deliver a more economical solution which will minimise environmental impacts, as well as maximising the benefits for consumers, communities and renewable generation developers. This includes an expected significant reduction in Transmission Network Use of System Charges (TNUoS) for connecting renewable generation developers. This investment will also strengthen security of supply for homes and businesses on the islands.

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Given the extent of project development that has already been undertaken on connecting the Western Isles, the foundations are already in place to enable the timely delivery of this new project. SSEN Transmission will now explore options to accelerate development of the 1.8GW link in advance of its current 2030 delivery date.

SSEN Transmission has already commenced a programme of engagement with its contracted customers, its supply chain and wider stakeholders, including the Western Isles Council, UK and Scottish Governments and elected members, to help inform the accelerated development and timely delivery of the 1.8GW link.

As part of this engagement, SSEN Transmission is working with Ofgem on the process for regulatory approvals for the 1.8GW link as part of the 'Pathway to 2030' network requirements set out by the ESO.

Rob McDonald, Managing Director of SSEN Transmission, said: "Today's publication of the Pathway to 2030 is a hugely significant milestone in finally unlocking the Western Isles vast renewable potential, with the Electricity System Operator putting beyond doubt the clear need to connect the islands to help deliver Government 2030 targets.

"As this new 1.8GW link has the potential to more than accommodate all known onshore and offshore wind in and around the Western Isles, we are now urgently reviewing how we can upgrade our previous proposals for a 600MW link given the significant environmental and economic benefits the new larger link now presents.

"We now look forward to working constructively with all stakeholders to accelerate delivery of this long awaited and much needed connection to the Western Isles, which will deliver significant local and national socio-economic benefits, as well as supporting 2030 Government targets and a pathway to net zero."