Shetland Faces Industrial Overreach Amid Energy Boom

Shetland is confronted with a significant challenge as local leaders voice concerns over potential industrial overreach in the region. During a consultation hosted by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) on November 27, 2023, attendees expressed their views on the future of energy projects in the area. Hannah Mary Goodlad, a candidate for the Scottish Parliament, highlighted the need for a more ambitious and community-focused approach to energy development.

Goodlad, who has spent over a decade working on energy projects, emphasized the importance of balancing industrial growth with the preservation of Shetland’s unique environment. She stated, “We need good jobs, secure livelihoods, and a future for young folk and families.” The candidate pointed out that Shetland is not merely a destination for those seeking a quieter life; it is a place that thrives on industry, including oil, gas, fishing, and aquaculture.

The consultation revealed plans for an extensive array of energy projects, including three substations, two ammonia plants, two subsea linking cables, one export cable from offshore east Shetland, three onshore wind farms, and three floating offshore wind farms. In total, these developments add up to a staggering 15 new energy projects. Goodlad raised concerns, noting, “I know of no other small community in the world being asked to absorb anything on that scale.”

Concerns Over Industrialisation

While acknowledging the need for industry, Goodlad cautioned against the dangers of over-industrialisation, which she described as “an industrial stampede for purely commercial interests.” She urged the community to take a stand and ensure that any development serves the interests of local residents. “We need industry, but not at any cost,” she asserted.

Goodlad compared Shetland’s situation to that of the Faroe Islands, where community-owned wind farms operate successfully, reinvesting profits back into local infrastructure and innovation. She noted that the Faroe Islands maintain energy affordability and do not experience “fuel poverty.” In contrast, Shetland’s largest wind farm, Viking, is privately owned, and local residents face challenges such as a significant portion of the community living in fuel poverty.

“The wind that creates profit for Viking energy strips Shetlanders of warmth in our homes,” Goodlad stated, underscoring the disparity between local needs and the current energy landscape.

Demands for Local Control

Goodlad outlined several key demands that she believes are essential for Shetland’s future. She called for all onshore planning decisions to be devolved to Shetland, allowing local authorities to determine whether and how new infrastructure projects proceed. She also advocated for planning consent to be tied to community equity ownership, ensuring that local residents benefit directly from energy developments.

In addition, she emphasized the importance of burying new overhead power lines to protect Shetland’s landscapes and called for fair local content in any approved projects, ensuring that local firms have opportunities to participate. Goodlad also highlighted the need for affordable housing linked to any development, stating that homes should be spread across the islands, not just concentrated in Lerwick.

Finally, she demanded a binding Just Transition Plan for workers in the Shetland energy sector, providing clear pathways into new jobs, training, and opportunities in the region’s evolving energy economy.

Reflecting on Shetland’s history, Goodlad recalled the Zetland County Council Act of 1974, which empowered local authorities to manage industrial development effectively. She emphasized that the challenges faced today require a similar level of ambition and confidence. “We need to find that confidence again,” she urged.

As the May 2024 Scottish Parliament elections approach, Goodlad pledged to work tirelessly to advocate for Shetland’s interests, stating, “The status quo isn’t working. Shetland needs a seat at the table where the decisions are made.” The community’s future hangs in the balance as the balance between development and preservation is navigated.