SSEN Transmission will begin nearshore marine investigations off Shetland's north‑west coast in the coming weeks to help determine a suitable landfall for the proposed Shetland 2 High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Link.

The surveys will collect detailed data on seabed and shoreline conditions around Braewick, which has been identified as one of the potential landfall locations for the subsea cable. From the coast, the cable would connect via an underground route to the proposed Northern Substation Hub in northern mainland Shetland.

SSEN Transmission has engaged with marine users and stakeholders ahead of the works, and a Notice to Mariners will be issued to set out vessel activity and timings for the nearshore operations at Braewick. The activity forms part of a wider programme of marine surveys to inform the final cable design, route and landfall selection.

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This work sits within the early design phase of the Shetland 2 HVDC Link, which would provide a second HVDC connection between Shetland and the Scottish mainland. If progressed, the investment is expected to deliver a significant boost to the Shetland economy by supporting local jobs and supply chains and providing wider socio‑economic benefits, while strengthening long‑term energy security for the islands.

Public information events held last year enabled communities and stakeholders to share feedback on possible landfall sites. As Braewick was identified more recently and was not included in those events, a further round of public consultation is planned for later this year once the survey work has concluded.

David Inge, Development Portfolio Manager from SSEN Transmission, said: "Marine surveys are an important early step in assessing potential landfall locations for the subsea cable, and the upcoming work off the coast at Braewick will help us better understand the area's suitability.

"We would like to again thank everyone who attended and provided feedback at the consultation events held in 2025, and we look forward to continued engagement with local communities and stakeholders as we progress and shape our proposals."