Consultation events regarding the future electricity supply of the Shetland's are to be held this week, it has been confirmed.

The meetings will take place in Yell and Brae.

Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD) has said it wants to hear from the local community as to how to determine the best way to keep the power available once Lerwick Power Station reaches the end of its operational life.

The public events will be held on:



• Wednesday 19 November – Yell Leisure Centre, from 3pm to 7.30pm


• Thursday 20 November – North Mainland Leisure Centre, Brae, from 3pm to 7.30pm.



Darren Hitchin, SHEPD's Shetland Operations Manager, commented: "In the 1960s, the people of Yell played a key part in securing the island's connection to mains electricity at a crucial time – supported by others across Shetland and beyond.

"Yell is already set to play a growing part in the future of electricity for Shetland via the NINES project, but we want to explore whether there are any opportunities to do more in any of the North Isles or the north mainland.

"We are also looking for feedback from all of our customers on their priorities, so that they can help to shape the criteria for the open, competitive process which we expect to conduct next year.

"We would encourage people to come along to help us identify the best long term solution to keep the lights on for Shetland."

(JP/IT)