Western Isles Interconnector – Isles MP disappointed at further delay from Ofgem – but optimism remains

23 Wednesday Oct 2019

Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP has expressed his disappointment at today’s publication by Ofgem which is delaying progress for the Interconnector.

The Contracts for Difference (CfD) Allocation Round 3 in September awarded just 240MWh to projects in the Western Isles, well below the 369-400MWh needed for the Interconnector to the mainland.

Yesterday at Westminster, Mr MacNeil pressed the Energy Minister, Kwasi Kwarteng MP about an interconnector and pointed out the ludicrous policy of the UK Government which on one hand gives 240MWh to the Western Isles in CfD Round 3 while also requiring 370-400MWh before the interconnector could be built.

Commenting Angus MacNeil MP said:

“It is disappointing that Ofgem is delaying progress with the interconnector, however after speaking to SSEN this morning I am encouraged that the door is still open to make progress with the 600MW capacity cable. SSEN remain hopeful that renewable projects will proceed, providing the 420MWh which will take them up to the 600MW cable capacity.

“SSEN is optimistic that progress can be made and is committed to driving this project on to secure a 600MW capacity cable for the Western Isles.

“Our islands have the best wind resource in Europe and the interconnector is vital for island renewable energy projects, SSEN and renewable developers have the opportunity to provide Ofgem with further information to support the needs case for the interconnector.”