Constructing a 600MW interconnector to the Western Isles would cost consumers just 4p more per household per year than the 450MW option according to MP Angus MacNeil.
Energy regulator, Ofgem, provisionally refused the larger sized cable as customers would have to fork out for any unused capacity on the link.
Ofgem opted for the 450MW connection on the basis only the three corporate windfarms planned for Lewis provides confidence of proceeding.
However, a number of communities plan small scale turbine developments if the link is built.
The cost of improving the electricity network infrastructure is applied to the bills received by the UK’s 27 million households.
Mr MacNeil said the small difference would allow a link with room for current proposals and future development; the potential to create more jobs; and capacity for the islands to grow this sector.
“It would allow the islands to meet their full renewables potential in an area with the best wind resource in Europe.”
He said Ofgem’s figures do not take account of the fact that “extra supply on the network would also lower” prices for the consumer.
The MP added: “In this case it seems obvious that the best possible deal is the one
which will bring the greatest long term positive economic impact at minimal additional
cost -
Ofgem are carrying out a consultation prior to a final decision and visited Lewis last week to meet developers and local agencies.
Extra 4p on everyone’s electricity bill for interconnector is worth it, says MP
15 April 2019
The cable would be laid on the Minch seabed