MSP looks ahead to key transmission charging debate

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur is looking forward to welcoming a delegation from Orkney to observe the Scottish Parliament debate on Project TransmiT — the Ofgem review set up to look at reforming the charging regime for transmitting energy from different parts of the UK.

This will be a key debate for the islands, as these charges will determine the future profitability of the renewables industry.

Following the debate, scheduled to take place tomorrow, Wednesday, Mr McArthur and the Orkney delegation will meet with the Scottish energy minister and representatives from Shetland and the Western Isles to discuss ‘next steps’ in the campaign.

Mr McArthur said: “This really is a key issue for the islands and the future of marine renewables, in particular.

“While progress has been made by Ofgem in terms of mainland connections in the Highlands, the situation facing islands remains unresolved.

“Indeed the competitive position for island developers could even be seen as more difficult with the proposals as they stand.”