A new company will be set up to run Sark’s power station and its grid, if the compulsory purchase of the island’s only electricity provider goes ahead.
A familiar face in Bailiwick-power-circles will be at the helm too, if the compulsory purchase happens.
Last night, Chief Pleas agreed to the terms of a £1.5million loan arranged with the States of Guernsey.
If the Seneschal approves the compulsory purchase of SEL, the money will be used to buy the power station and grid and to pay for any urgent remedial works needed to make the network safe.
Chief Pleas said “the compulsory purchase of SEL’s assets will secure Sark’s energy future for generations to come”.
“It will allow the island to determine its own direction and it will ensure that our energy infrastructure is safe, reliable, sustainable and meets the current and future needs of our residents and businesses.”
Whether the compulsory purchase happens is ultimately in the Seneschal’s hands. She will decide if it goes ahead based on an independent valuation being prepared by Begbies Traynor.
If the compulsory purchase goes ahead, Chief Pleas said it will set up a “new, wholly Chief Pleas‑owned company to hold and operate the electricity assets”.
“This company is intended as an initial and necessary step to provide clear governance, accountability and professional management of the network during transition,” said a spokesperson.
“Once stability has been restored and the condition of the infrastructure fully understood, Chief Pleas will review the most appropriate long‑term ownership model, including whether a community‑owned structure could be developed in the future.”
It’s already been decided that James Lancaster will run the new company.
He used to be the Managing Director of Alderney Electricity Limited, and has wider experience in “the operational, technical, and governance demands of a small-island energy system”.
If the compulsory purchase goes ahead, Mr Lancaster will oversee the transfer of assets, the management of immediate remedial works, and the establishment of robust operational and governance arrangements during the initial phase of public ownership.