Consultation Into Scottish Subsea Cable Proposals
The UK's energy regulator, Ofgem, has launched a public consultation on a proposed subsea cable replacement project in the Scottish Hebrides.

Image for illustration purposes.
The existing cable connecting Ardmore on the Isle of Skye to Loch Carnan on South Uist has been in service for over 30 years and is at risk of failure due to its poor condition.
SSEN, the current owner and operator, has proposed constructing a new subsea cable as the best solution to maintain electricity supply to South Uist. However, Ofgem suggests that replacing a section of the subsea cable with an overhead line could be more cost-effective for consumers.
The regulator is seeking public opinion on allocating £53.81 million to SSEN for a new subsea connection and additional overhead line connections between the islands. Ofgem emphasises that SSEN should bear any extra costs resulting from delays in the consenting process for a new overhead line, stating that the company could have better mitigated potential delays.
This consultation is part of a series recently launched by Ofgem, including proposed changes to Capacity Market rules and a call for input on voluntary consumer gas disconnections. These initiatives reflect the regulator’s efforts to adapt to changing energy landscapes and consumer needs in the UK.
Source: Current
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