SSEN Transmission has submitted a planning application to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for its Lewis Hub project, a crucial component of the Western Isles Connection Project.

The application details plans for a new High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) converter station and AC substation near Stornoway.

The Lewis Hub is integral to establishing a new subsea HVDC link between Lewis and the mainland, which will unlock 1.8GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity in the Western Isles. This development is aimed at supporting national clean power and energy security objectives.

The submission of the planning application follows an extensive consultation process. Community feedback played a significant role in the decision to relocate the infrastructure from the initially preferred site at Creed North to the current proposed location at Arnish Moor.

The application outlines measures to minimise the visual impact of the site, including a reduction in the platform size from the original design, along with landscaping and screening proposals.

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This planning submission marks a significant step forward for the Lewis Hub and the subsea HVDC link, which will connect the Western Isles to the national electricity transmission network for the first time. The project is also expected to enhance network reliability and security of supply for homes and businesses across the islands.

Furthermore, the development is anticipated to bring substantial economic benefits to the region through community benefit funding associated with new renewable energy projects, as well as job creation and supply chain opportunities during the construction phase. SSEN Transmission recently hosted a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event in Stornoway to connect local businesses with the project’s principal contractors.

In addressing workforce accommodation needs, SSEN Transmission is collaborating with the council, Hebridean Housing Partnership, and local groups on solutions such as restoring empty homes, renovating properties, establishing a temporary worker village, and part-funding new homes that will be leased during construction before being released to the local housing stock. This initiative is part of SSEN Transmission’s commitment to contribute to over 1,000 new homes across the north of Scotland, supporting future housing needs in Lewis and leaving a positive community legacy.

Colin Bell, Lead Project Manager for SSEN Transmission, commented: "We’re pleased to reach the stage of submitting our planning application for the Lewis Hub project, which is a key element of the subsea HVDC link that will connect the abundant renewable energy potential of the Western Isles to the GB transmission system."

He added, "From the outset we have actively sought to shape our plans in consultation with the local community, most notably resulting in our decision to move from our original proposed location at Creed North to the current location at Arnish Moor."

Bell also thanked those who provided feedback during the pre-application consultation and stated: "We now look forward to working with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and stakeholders as part of the planning submission process."