Eigg residents scramble for 24-hour power

A 24-hour mains electricity supply has finally arrived for residents of a remote Scottish island.

The locals of Eigg, which lies in the Small Isles archipelago off Scotland's west coast, previously had to rely on expensive diesel generators to run their homes.

It is hoped the £1.6 million renewable energy system, which includes hydro, wind and solar power, will generate more than 95 per cent of its annual energy demand.

The system is backed up by a battery storage system and two diesel generators.

It has taken a decade for the islanders' green dream to be realised. The idea was first raised after the community of less than 100 people bought the island from its previous owner in 1997 .

Now, a total of 45 households, 20 businesses and six community buildings are linked together by six miles of buried cable that forms a high voltage network.

John Booth, director of Eigg Electric which has co-ordinated the project, said: "This project is the culmination of ten years of achievement."

Eigg Electric commissioned Synergie Scotland, which manages infrastructure projects, to oversee the scheme.

Ian MacGillivray, managing director of Synergie Scotland, said: "We have been delighted to have been involved with such a unique and technically challenging project and we compliment the people of Eigg for their vision and determination."

John Hutchison, chairman of the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust, said: "The Eigg Electric team has done an excellent job on behalf of the resilient Eigg community."

The trust raised £45,000 for the project and the islanders brought in a further £30,000.

Funding also came from Europe, the Big Lottery Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company, the Scottish Government and Highland Council.

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