Ofgem has conditionally approved Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks' (SSEN's) 600MW subsea electricity transmission link from Shetland to mainland Scotland.

Following SSEN's submission of its revised Final Needs Case in January, Ofgem has proposed to approve the link on the condition that by the end of 2020 it is satisfied that the Viking Energy Wind Farm is likely to go ahead.


Evidence to confirm this would include the Final Investment Decision being reached, or the triggering of a major development milestone that indicates project commencement.

Ofgem explained its position to conditionally approve the link, considering it to be in the interests of current and future GB customers, with construction likely to provide an economic and efficient outcome as well.

Responses to Ofgem's minded-to position are requested by 18 June.