SSE Renewables has taken a significant step towards achieving a net-zero future by installing the first two wind turbines at the Viking Energy wind farm in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. This milestone marks the beginning of the construction of one of the largest wind farms in the UK.
The first turbine was installed at South Midfield, west of Kergord, and was quickly followed by the second turbine at Riven Hill, in North Nesting, near Laxo. The third turbine is expected to be installed at Scar Quilse in the North Nesting section of the wind farm's site.
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The Viking Energy wind farm will comprise 103 of Vestas' V117 turbines, each capable of producing 4.3MW of power. With an estimated annual generation of enough clean electricity to power up to 475,098 Scottish homes, the wind farm will save 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
These turbines have a tip height of 155m, including a hub height of 96.5m for the nacelle and blades with a length of 57m each. The installation of the turbines and more than 27 of the tower base sections began in February 2023, with the turbine components being transported from Lerwick Port.
All the turbines are expected to be installed by the end of 2023, and the wind farm is expected to start operating by autumn of 2024.
SSE Renewables' onshore renewables development and construction director, Heather Donald, described the installation of the first turbines as a significant milestone in the project, further stating that it highlights the company's strategy of leading the transition to a net-zero future through the world-class development, construction, and operation of renewable power assets.
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The installation of these turbines demonstrates SSE Renewables' commitment to reducing carbon emissions and accelerating the transition to a clean energy future. The Viking Energy wind farm will provide a substantial contribution towards meeting the UK's renewable energy targets and a cleaner environment.
