Shetland may be a small island, but it's big on ambition when it comes to achieving net zero. One company playing a vital role in this mission is SSEN Distribution who are sponsors for The Tall Ships Races visit to Lerwick!
With over 20 staff including apprentices and trainees working out of the company’s Lerwick Depot and seven part-time colleagues based on the islands, SSEN is responsible for the electricity distribution network on Shetland - the underground cables, overhead lines, and substations that power homes and businesses. Teams work all year-round to power our communities and on the rare occasions there is a fault, colleagues are on hand 24/7 and ready to help restore supplies.
But SSEN's work doesn't stop there. They are also looking towards the future when low-carbon technologies like electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps will become even more common across the island. And to facilitate this uptake in new technologies, SSEN is upgrading the capacity of their network on Shetland.
George Priest, SSEN's Head of Operations for Shetland, is proud of the company's role in powering the communities where they live and work.
He says: "You'll see our vans out and about across the island, and whether we're there installing new equipment or carrying out maintenance on existing kit, it's all being done to keep the power flowing safely, securely, and reliably for Shetland's homes and businesses."
It's not just about power - SSEN has an emphasis on inclusivity. Focusing on apprentices, trainees and ensuring that women are also well-represented in the industry.
As George explains:
“I’m now approaching my 37th year with SSEN, and the time has flown by, largely due to the sheer variety of roles that I’ve carried out since I joined, but I think it’s also down to just how interesting the work we do is and the real feeling of community spirit across Shetland.
“With our Craft Apprenticeship programme you get the chance to earn while you learn, developing new skills and gaining valuable work experience and qualifications. It’s centred on work-based learning and the training is linked directly to the job, with the opportunity to achieve a Modern Apprenticeship qualification and a ‘City & Guilds’ Technical Certificate and SVQ in Scotland.
“We currently have two apprentices and one trainee in our team on Shetland, with another two apprentices starting in August - as we all work hard on the road to net zero, I’m sure they’ll also find their careers to be as interesting, varied and enjoyable as mine.”
By supporting The Tall Ships Races visit to Lerwick, SSEN is playing its part in making Shetland an even more vibrant and thriving community.
As George says:
“The Tall Ships Race is a major event for Shetland, and we’re delighted to be supporting such a key date in the Island’s calendar.”
So next time you flick the switch to boil your kettle or turn on the lights in your office, spare a thought for the hardworking team at SSEN, who are doing their part to keep the power flowing for Shetland's homes and businesses - now and in the future.
To find out more about careers with SSEN, please click here.
