McArthur seeks government support for replacement of electrical infrastructure

Liam McArthur, Orkney’s MSP has today sought the government’s support for consent to be granted as soon as possible for the replacement of the electrical cable serving North Ronaldsay after SSEN confirmed the fault developed earlier this year could not be fixed.  

Mr McArthur also called on the government to ensure the fibre in any replacement cable can be used to boost digital connectivity and resilience in North Ronaldsay.  

In response, Energy Minister Stephen Gethins acknowledged the issues raised and offered to meet with Mr McArthur to discuss the matter in more detail.  Mr McArthur has since written to the Minister inviting him to visit Orkney over the summer recess to engage on issues of island resilience and digital infrastructure, as well as meet with local representatives of the energy sector.  

Commenting after the exchange, Mr McArthur said:  

“The damage to the electrical cable serving North Ronaldsay has had a significant impact on island residents, who have been reliant on a diesel generator for power for most of the early part of this year.  

“A new cable will be required and every effort must be made to ensuring this is consented and laid as soon as possible. Steps also need to be taken to address the financial losses many islanders have faced due to having to turn off their turbines during this period.  

“Replacement of the cable, however, does present an ideal opportunity to deliver fibre to the island, strengthening community resilience by providing better digital connectivity for households and businesses in North Ronaldsay. 

“I met with SSEN earlier today who confirmed they are open to allowing access to the fibre in their cable. I plan to approach telecoms providers to encourage them to take up this offer and hope the Minister will now support those efforts.

“This is part of a wider effort to improve resilience across the islands and so I welcome the Minister’s willingness to visit Orkney over the summer to engage in more detail on this and related issues”.