SSEN Distribution has issued revised plans for the next phase of its Shetland North Mainland network reinforcement project, with changes designed to accelerate the works, reduce environmental impact, and improve reliability for customers.

The multi-million-pound project, which began earlier this year and is due for completion by the end of 2026, will significantly increase network capacity to support the installation of low-carbon technologies like heat pumps and EV chargers, as well as aiding the decarbonisation and economic growth ambitions of local industries.

Key Change: Road-Only Cable Route

The most significant revision, agreed upon with Shetland Islands Council (SIC), involves the installation of the two new 43km underground cables between Sullom Voe and Gremista.

Original Plan: Installation along both public highways and off-road locations.

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Revised Plan: Cables will be installed solely along the public highways.

Steven Cowie, SSEN Distribution's Project Manager, explained that in-depth studies commissioned by contract partner OCU Group revealed that the off-road areas presented major challenges due to soil type, water course crossings, and sensitive peatlands.

"As a result of these findings, we've revisited our original plans and agreed an alternative with SIC which avoids the construction of approximately 20km of access roads," said Mr. Cowie.

Benefits of the New Plan

The revised road-only approach offers several long-term environmental and logistical benefits:

• Reduced Construction Time: Shortens the overall project timeline by several months by eliminating the need to construct and restore temporary access roads.

• Lower Emissions: A lower volume of construction transport and machinery due to the removal of major off-road excavations will result in lower project emissions.

• Environmental Protection: The plan avoids disturbance to the habitats of birds and wildlife on Shetland's sensitive peatlands.

While works will now be exclusively on public roads—installed in 500m sections with rolling traffic management—SSEN appreciates the potential disruption. Mr. Cowie thanked the local community for their patience and advised motorists to factor in extra travel time due to necessary speed restrictions.

Community information sessions, featuring members of the SSEN and OCU Group teams, will be held in early 2026 to explain the updated project timeline and traffic management plans.