Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is investing £500,000 to upgrade the electricity network on the island of Fetlar in Shetland.

Engineers from SSEN are planning major work to strengthen the main overhead line that supplies electricity to around 80 customers on the island.

The £500,000 investment includes the installation of additional lightning protection on the line and the replacement of 109 lightweight wood poles with heavy-duty poles.

This work will provide greater protection to the network and improve security of supply for customers.

Fetlar is one of Shetland's North Isles and is connected via ferry service to the neighbouring island of Yell, from where a further ferry connects to the Shetland mainland. It supports a population of around 60. The island is noted for its agricultural productivity and is often referred to as 'the garden of Shetland'.

Before the work begins, SSEN is inviting members of the local community to find out more and raise any questions they may have at an open evening to be held on Wednesday 16 November between 4pm and 7pm at Fetlar Hall.

Engineers will use mobile generators to keep the period of disruption to a minimum, as they carry out the work to strengthen the network. The programme is expected to take around 4-6 weeks to complete in total, depending on the weather conditions.

George Priest, Shetland Operations Manager, says:

"The island of Fetlar is one of the most remote and isolated parts of our network in the north of Scotland. To ensure we are minimising interruptions to our customers' electricity supply, we are committed to investing in the network through this major refurbishment programme.

"We want to ensure customers are informed before we carry out this work and would like to extend an invitation to everyone in Fetlar to find out more about what we're doing at our open evening on Wednesday 16 November. We will be delighted to answer questions; and receive any comments, suggestions or feedback.

"Our priority is to provide a secure and safe electricity supply for our customers and we understand how important this is to small island communities. Strengthening the network in Fetlar is expected to deliver significant improvements for many years to come, but we also want to make sure customers have all of the information and support they need while the refurbishment work is ongoing."