For decades Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has been keeping the lights on in island communities across the north of Scotland. In order to keep those lights on, there is an ongoing programme to replace the submarine electricity cables that deliver the power to island communities as these cables reach the end of their operational life.

SSEN has recently launched a six week consultation period to find out how local people feel about plans to replace the submarine electricity cables between Mossbank and Yell, and Yell to Unst.

Four recent public events were well attended and allowed useful local information to be shared. Feedback will aid plans and improve the next phases of the cable replacement programme.

Kirstine Wood, Lead Engagement and Submarine Policy Manager said "I would like to thank all of those who came along to the events and shared valuable local knowledge. The feedback received to date will help inform and determine our proposed installation method and we would encourage anyone else who has an interest in how these cables are installed to let us know their views before the consultation closes."

The consultation underway seeks local opinions on any environmental, social and economic impacts the submarine electricity cables might have. The six weekconsultation period ends 5 June 2017.

For further information and the opportunity to submit feedback, see /submarinecables or email submarinecablessse.com