The project to connect Shetland's electricity network to the national grid has achieved a significant milestone with the arrival of two new transformers at the Gremista Grid Supply Point (GSP). These transformers, each weighing approximately 59 tonnes, are crucial components for the ongoing connection project.

The transformers were successfully delivered to the Gremista site earlier this month, having arrived at Lerwick Harbour's Greenhead Base. Specialist haulier RRS carefully loaded the units onto a multi-axle vehicle for transport to the substation. The convoy travelled at a reduced speed to ensure the safe delivery of the oversized components.

Once fully installed, the transformers will enhance the site's ability to handle current and future electricity demand, facilitating the flow of energy through the substation and improving network reliability and efficiency.

Mark Kelly, Deputy Project Director for SSEN Transmission, said: "The arrival of these transformers is a significant step forwards in our new Gremista Grid Supply Point and wider Gremista Connection project, which will strengthen the energy infrastructure here in Shetland. Once this link is complete, it will form the crucial land connection between the Shetland HVDC Link to the GB mainland and the local Shetland grid supply point here at Gremista, connecting Shetland to the GB energy system for the first time. This will enable the supply of clean power to homes and businesses, including at times when local generation on Shetland's electricity distribution network does not meet demand."


He also acknowledged the careful planning involved in the transportation process, stating, "While the journey between the harbour and the final location for the transformers was relatively short, we worked closely with our contractor Morgan Sindall Infrastructure to carefully plan for their safe arrival to Gremista with minimum disruption. We thank the local community for their continued patience while we work to complete this project and will keep them informed as this project progresses."

Peter Kirk, Managing Director – Energy for Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, commented: "The operation's success was only possible because of the careful collaboration between the SSEN Transmission, RRS, Tironi and Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, to coordinate the transportation of the transformers, and safely manoeuvre them into position at the Gremista Grid Supply Point. These transformers will enable local renewable energy to flow to the islands' homes and businesses by connecting people, places and communities through innovative and responsible infrastructure."

SSEN Transmission's Gremista to Kergord connection project involves creating a 22km connection between the new Gremista GSP and the Kergord Substation, completed in 2024 as part of the Shetland HVDC link. This connection uses a combination of overhead lines and underground cabling.

The Kergord-Gremista link is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Shetland will be fully connected to the mainland national grid following the commissioning, testing, and energisation of SSEN Distribution's standby solution in the first half of 2026. Until then, Lerwick Power Station will continue to ensure a reliable power supply for Shetland.