Just over three years since breaking ground on the project, SSE Renewables has successfully installed the final turbine at the 443MW Viking Wind Farm in Shetland.
The process began in February 2023 and in just over six months the team of technicians has safely and successfully installed all 103 Vestas V117 4.3MW machines on the site.
Over the last month, the project has progressed rapidly. The final unit went up well ahead of schedule, as the original programme had been due to complete in autumn 2023.
The project remains on track for completion in 2024, with commissioning works set to continue over the next year.
When fully operational, Viking’s turbines will operate in 4.3MW power mode and comprise 443MW of capacity, capable of generating up to 1.8TWh of renewable electricity annually – enough to power almost half a million typical British homes, including every home in Shetland.
“We’re reaching the point in the Viking Wind Farm project where we are celebrating key milestones which just shows the good progress we are making,” said SSE Renewables’ onshore renewables development and construction director Heather Donald.
“The weather in Shetland has been challenging at times so achieving the installation of the final turbine ahead of schedule is testament to the hard work and commitment of those involved,” Donald stated.
“Reaching this landmark milestone underlines our strategy to lead the transition to a net zero future through the world-class development, construction and operation of renewable power assets.
“Viking will be capable of producing enough energy to power the equivalent of almost half a million homes including every home in Shetland and is on course for completion in 2024.”
Vestas onshore construction director, UK & Ireland Anne Séméria added: “The team has worked hard over the past six months to ensure the turbines are built safely and to a high quality.
“It has been a real team effort to optimize our installation plans and take advantage of the good weather.
“We would like to thank everyone involved for their passion, commitment and high standards and we look forward to Viking Wind Farm being fully operational next year as it will play a crucial role in contributing towards achieving the UK and Scotland’s net zero targets.”
