SSEN Transmission has completed the new Kergord to Gremista electricity transmission link, a major milestone for Shetland's energy network and its transition to a low‑carbon future.

The 22km, 132kV connection creates a secure transmission route between the new Gremista Grid Supply Point (GSP) and Kergord Substation, where the Shetland HVDC Link connects to the island, strengthening long‑term security and reliability of supply for homes, businesses and communities.

Once all supporting systems are in place, the link will provide the infrastructure needed for Shetland's homes and businesses to connect to the GB national grid for the first time, allowing electricity to be supplied into the local distribution network, enhancing security of supply and supporting future demand.

The energisation marks a key construction and commissioning step. The link will become fully operational later this year when SSEN Distribution's Shetland Standby Project enters service, ensuring a secure and resilient power supply in all operating conditions.

The project underpins Shetland's move away from oil and gas‑fired generation, helping to cut emissions and improve long‑term energy resilience across the islands.

Delivery combined overhead line and underground cabling, with the route designed to balance reliability, environmental protection, cost and visual impact. Construction by SSEN Transmission, working with principal contractors Morgan Sindall Infrastructure and Omexom, used targeted helicopter lifts to protect sensitive peatland and minimise temporary access tracks. At its peak, more than 200 people worked on the project, including 50 based locally.

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The scheme has also provided a significant boost to the local economy, with over £23m of contracts awarded to more than 25 Shetland‑based firms, supporting jobs, skills and investment. Local companies including CW Johnson Plant, EWN Plant Ltd and Ness Engineering contributed to civil works, plant and equipment hire, specialist services, logistics, accommodation and transport. More than 30 local jobs were created during the project, including apprenticeships.

Mark Kelly, Project Director for SSEN Transmission, said: "Completing the Kergord to Gremista link is a hugely important milestone for Shetland and for everyone involved in delivering this complex project.

"By connecting into the local electricity distribution network, this new link will support Shetland's transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system and represents another clear step away from reliance on oil and gas-fired power stations, with the full transition due later this year.

"We're also proud of the strong local legacy this project leaves behind, with more than £23 million invested directly in Shetland businesses whose expertise and commitment have been critical to its success.

"We want to thank the local community for their patience and understanding while we built this project, which will help support Shetland's energy future for generations to come."

David Stacey, Energy Director – Scotland at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure said: "At Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, we're fully committed to helping to deliver the biggest upgrade of the UK's national grid in a generation. This is essential to meeting Scotland's growing energy demand and strengthening resilience in the country's offshore regions.

"We're proud to have delivered the Kergord to Gremista link alongside SSEN Transmission, our partners and local suppliers, creating lasting benefits for local communities, businesses and the environment that will live on long after our work on site is complete."

Elaine Anley, Business Unit General Manager for Substations Omexom said: "The successful completion of the Kergord to Gremista link is a significant achievement for Shetland and a testament to the strong collaboration between SSEN Transmission, Omexom, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, and the wider supply chain.

"This was a complex project delivered in a challenging environment, and we are extremely proud of the team's commitment to safety, quality and environmental stewardship throughout construction.

"As always Omexom's focus has always been on delivering resilient infrastructure while minimising impact.This new connection plays a vital role in strengthening Shetland's electricity network and supporting the islands' transition to a lower carbon future. We're proud to have played our part in creating lasting benefits for local communities, businesses and future generations."

The Kergord–Gremista link is a key part of integrating Shetland's local electricity system with the national grid, providing a secure, future‑proof network designed to keep power flowing safely and reliably for generations.