Construction begins on Lewis Hub electricity project

Work has begun on the first direct electricity connection between the Western Isles and Scottish mainland.

The Lewis Hub, near Stornoway, will house a high voltage direct current (HVDC) switching station as part of the subsea cable.

SSEN Transmission said the project would have the capacity to export up to 1.8GW of renewable electricity to the UK grid while helping to strengthen energy security in the Western Isles.

Highlands-based contractor RJ McLeod is to lead the first phase of construction.

The hub site in Lewis will contain a HVDC converter station and alternating current (AC) substation, which will make it possible for electricity to travel through the connection.

Sandy Mactaggart, director of offshore delivery at SSEN Transmission said the project was about "unlocking the islands' vast renewable energy potential", and strengthening the electricity network.

SSEN said the project would bring wider benefits to island communities, including investment in new housing and infrastructure projects.

The company is to launch a £1.06m local fund, which is in addition to its contribution to refurbish the Caledonian Hotel in Stornoway and £3.4m of improvements to the Arnish Road.