Wave power proposal for Shader in Lewis shelved

Plans for a 20 megawatt wave power project on the north west coast of Lewis have been shelved.

Voith Hydro Wavegen were developing a breakwater project at Shader.

But the company has decided to no longer pursue the scheme due to a lack of funding and uncertainty surrounding a subsea cable across the Minch.

Another project on the Lewis coast proposed by Aquamarine Power looks set to receive planning permission from the Scottish government.

However, this project is also dependent on their being a subsea cable.

Working group

Last month, the cost of the planned power cable to link renewable energy projects on the Western Isles and mainland Scotland increased by 75%.

Scottish Hydro Electric (SHE), a subsidiary of energy company SSE, said it would cost at least £700m.

SHE said hopes of completing the cable and the £75m-worth of infrastructure needed on Lewis in 2015 could be delayed for 12 months or longer.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar called for inquiry into the project.

Meanwhile, a plan will be prepared next year to guide renewable energy development activity in the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters.

Marine Scotland, Orkney Islands Council and Highland Council have set up a working group to take forward the project.