Viking Energy is gearing up for project delivery and construction with a number of activities under way.
These include engagement with Shetland-based supply firms to maximise local involvement and income from contracts following a successful first Shetland renewables supply chain event in Lerwick earlier this month, attended by around 40 local companies. Preparations are underway for a second supply chain event in the spring.
Viking Energy has also now formally applied to the Scottish Government to make a minor alteration to the consented project, in order to be able to install the latest most efficient wind turbines on the market. The documentation can be viewed in our online Archive.
The formal submission follows a public exhibition and engagement event held in early October.
The variation to the current planning consent seeks an increase in maximum tip height up to 10 metres, from 145m to 155m (see image of the visual difference) with a corresponding increase in the turbine hub height from 90 to 95m.
A spokesperson for Viking Energy said: “We are entering an exciting time for renewable energy in Shetland with construction of Viking due to commence in 2020 if the project secures a CfD contract and gets the green light.
"It would mean a new industry for Shetland, bringing a new source of community income and jobs while helping diversify and decarbonise the islands’ economy.”
The community benefit fund for Shetland could increase to up to £2.3 million a year if the wind farm was built to its maximum capacity. Selling more electricity would earn greater income for the shareholders too, including Shetland Charitable Trust which has a 45% stake in the project.
The Viking Wind Farm is a joint venture between the Shetland community and SSE and is the largest project with community ownership in the UK.