Shetland Islands Council is to soon enter into negotiations with Statkraft, Aker Horizons Asset Development and Mainstream Renewable Power to agree a lease for the land.

Matt Kelly, Statkraft’s vice president of UK Hydrogen, said: “I’m delighted with the outcome of this process, which will see Statkraft and partners utilise our combined experience to harness the renewable potential of Shetland. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with Shetland Islands Council, and solidifying Statkraft’s commitment to the islands, pushing forward the UK’s energy transition.”

Emma Macdonald, leader of Shetland Islands Council said: “I am pleased that the council has been able to identify Statkraft as a prospective tenant – they are an internationally recognised, leading generator of renewable energy. As well as providing employment opportunities for Shetland, their proposal also ties in with the council’s corporate plan ‘Our Ambition 2021-2026’ and Energy Development Principles.”

The next steps of the process leading to the agreement of a lease will now be subject to commercial negotiations between the council and Statkraft.