A major project to replace the undersea electricity cable that connects the Isle of Jura to Tayvallich in mainland Argyll is now complete.
The cable became faulty in November and, following repairs that were hampered by bad weather, teams from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) connected the new one to the main electricity network this week.
This has returned the network to normal operation, supplying electricity to the islands of Jura, Islay and Colonsay.
Since November, the islands have been powered by a combination of Bowmore Power Station and local renewable generation.
SSEN’s Mark Rough said: “Keeping the power flowing to the communities we serve is our key priority at SSEN and we’d like to thank the community and local businesses for their patience and support.
“Adverse weather conditions, including Storms Brendan, Ciara and Dennis, presented our teams with various challenges along the way, but I’d like to thank everyone involved for their efforts to help return the network to normal operation as soon as possible.”
Michael Russell, MSP for Argyll and Bute, added: “SSEN and their partners have done a tremendous job in restoring the link despite appalling weather delaying the operation for a considerable period of time.
“Their commitment to ensuring that the islands are connected has been total, even though it has involved laying a completely new cable at very considerable cost.
“They have also been very good at keeping the communities – and elected representatives – informed. I am sure everyone is grateful to them – and everyone hopes it will never happen again.”