Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 20, SSEN Transmission has received planning approval from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for the Lewis Hub transmission project on the Isle of Lewis in the Western Isles of Scotland. The facility, to be built at Arnish Moor, will comprise a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter station and an alternating current (AC) substation. It will enable a 1.8 GW transmission link between the Western Isles and the Scottish mainland.

The approval allows construction to start early next year. Multiple renewable energy developments in the region are expected to connect to this new grid infrastructure.

Alison Hall, Director of Development at SSEN Transmission, stated: “Investing in this local electricity transmission network connection is also a major driver of jobs and economic activity, and we are already seeing the positive impact the Lewis Hub is delivering through new housing and infrastructure upgrades supporting economic and social growth for the islands.

“With the creation of new jobs within SSEN Transmission and our supply chain partners, as well as proposals for community benefit funding and our housing legacy commitments, our projects will deliver a lasting legacy in communities across the north of Scotland including in the Western Isles.

“Today’s decision marks a key milestone in delivering UK and Scottish government energy targets – creating a hub for clean energy projects that will help build a cleaner, more secure and affordable electricity system for generations to come.”

Colin Bell, Lead Development Project Manager, added: “Today’s decision is the culmination of a detailed development process where we have sought to achieve the best balance from a community, environmental and technical perspective, listening closely to the views of the local community with whom we have consulted extensively.

“Our move from the original Creed North site to Arnish Moor demonstrates our willingness to listen and act on feedback, and we thank everyone who engaged with us during our pre-application consultations, which were vital in shaping our proposals.

“We will continue to engage constructively with the local community throughout the lifetime of this project, as we fulfil our commitment to being a good neighbour and delivering a positive legacy.”

The Lewis Hub will provide essential grid capacity for renewable generation on the Western Isles, supporting the integration of new wind projects while contributing to employment, housing improvements, and long-term community benefits in the area.