Laxay Kershadar Subsea Cable Replacement

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SHEPD are replacing a submarine cable across Loch Erisort, connecting Laxay to Kershader on the Western Isles. This essential upgrade represents a key part of our subsea infrastructure and will ensure security of supply for local communities in this remote part of Scotland.

Project Overview

The existing 11kV submarine cable which has been servicing this part of the distribution network is nearing the end of its operational life. The replacement submarine cable is required to meet the region’s ongoing energy needs and ensure the continued resilience of the local electricity network.

The project is currently heading to the construction phase, and it is proposed to be completed by Summer 2026.

What is involved in the cable replacement project?

This project involves installing a new high voltage 11kV submarine cable within a designated corridor across Loch Erisort. The existing cable, which has reliably served the local community since 1994, will be taken out of service once the replacement cable becomes operational.

Benefits to the Community

Reliable Power Supply: The subsea cables ensures that homes and businesses in Laxay, Kershader, and surrounding areas have a stable electricity connection, reducing the risk of outages.

Economic Stability: essential for local businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities. It helps attract investment and supports community development.

Resilience & Safety: The new subsea cable replaces the existing aging infrastructure which ensures long-term resilience and reduce the risks of failures.

What impact will this have on local communities?

We are committed to keeping local residents and stakeholders updated as we work to upgrade this crucial part of the local network and will keep all affected parties informed throughout the process with regular updates.

SHEPD are also working with a local contractor to manage the construction activity.

Project timeline & next steps

Planning & design phase: We have been working on the design phase of the project since 2023 including route surveys, environmental assessments, and obtaining statutory consents.

Construction and cable laying: scheduled early in 2026 for marine works, with shore-end works coordinated to limit disruption.

SHEPD are replacing a submarine cable across Loch Erisort, connecting Laxay to Kershader on the Western Isles. This essential upgrade represents a key part of our subsea infrastructure and will ensure security of supply for local communities in this remote part of Scotland.

Project Overview

The existing 11kV submarine cable which has been servicing this part of the distribution network is nearing the end of its operational life. The replacement submarine cable is required to meet the region’s ongoing energy needs and ensure the continued resilience of the local electricity network.

The project is currently heading to the construction phase, and it is proposed to be completed by Summer 2026.

What is involved in the cable replacement project?

This project involves installing a new high voltage 11kV submarine cable within a designated corridor across Loch Erisort. The existing cable, which has reliably served the local community since 1994, will be taken out of service once the replacement cable becomes operational.

Benefits to the Community

Reliable Power Supply: The subsea cables ensures that homes and businesses in Laxay, Kershader, and surrounding areas have a stable electricity connection, reducing the risk of outages.

Economic Stability: essential for local businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities. It helps attract investment and supports community development.

Resilience & Safety: The new subsea cable replaces the existing aging infrastructure which ensures long-term resilience and reduce the risks of failures.

What impact will this have on local communities?

We are committed to keeping local residents and stakeholders updated as we work to upgrade this crucial part of the local network and will keep all affected parties informed throughout the process with regular updates.

SHEPD are also working with a local contractor to manage the construction activity.

Project timeline & next steps

Planning & design phase: We have been working on the design phase of the project since 2023 including route surveys, environmental assessments, and obtaining statutory consents.

Construction and cable laying: scheduled early in 2026 for marine works, with shore-end works coordinated to limit disruption.

Page last updated: 23 Jul 2026, 10:46 AM