Support the creation of community energy networks across Shetland that link in with a green and strengthened Shetland Electricity Grid and complement/enable local energy efficiency, recycling and carbon capture initiatives.
We received news in December 2023 that, along with partners in Orkney, our funding bid to Innovate UK for a rural energy and transport hub, had been successful. The first phase of this project generated a wide ranging feasibility study which investigated the non-technical systemic barriers to decarbonisation in Shetland, with the aim of overcoming these by creating a network of rural transport and energy hubs. The study identified key locations for hubs, and suggested Brae as a prime location for a pilot.
The second phase of this project looks at implementing a rural energy/transport hub in Brae, with the Youth Centre as the preferred location, following engagement with local community groups. This project includes:- energy efficiency upgrades to the building; connectivity and use plan of the hub in relation to the North Mainland; transport analysis of the North Mainland; a retrofit to include co-working space; flexible community group space and comfortable meeting/waiting space; rapid charging facilities; renewable energy generation; car club location; e-bike and storage location; 12 month trial of an electric bus; and concept design for a district heating scheme in Brae, making use of curtailed energy and waste energy as far as possible.