Top 10 Best Electrical Contractors in Shetland Islands

Shetland's Changing Electrical Landscape

For decades, Shetland was not connected to the national electricity grid and relied on the Lerwick Power Station for much of its supply. That picture has changed dramatically. The Viking Energy wind farm in central Mainland and the high-voltage link to mainland Scotland have transformed the islands into a significant renewable energy exporter. Tidal energy pioneers such as Nova Innovation have operated turbines in Bluemull Sound, between Unst and Yell, demonstrating the islands' role as a test bed for marine power.

These changes have raised demand for skilled electrical contractors, from domestic rewiring specialists to industrial engineers who support energy, aquaculture and port infrastructure. This guide outlines the contractors and specialist groups that stand out for quality and reliability.

Our Selection Criteria

We assessed contractors on safety record, accreditation, range of services, experience with renewables and ability to serve both Mainland and the outer isles. Membership of SELECT, Scotland's trade association for the electrotechnical industry, or registration with NICEIC or NAPIT, signals compliance with recognised standards.

The Top 10 Electrical Contractors and Specialists

1. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks operates the distribution network in Shetland. While it does not carry out internal wiring for households, it handles new supply connections, meter positions and network upgrades, and is the starting point for any project needing increased capacity.

2. DITT Construction

DITT Construction delivers electrical installations as part of wider building projects, ensuring that wiring, lighting and heating controls are coordinated with structural and finishing work on new homes and commercial buildings.

3. Malakoff

Based in Lerwick, Malakoff is a well-known marine and industrial engineering company with expertise spanning fabrication, ship repair and electrical systems. It is a strong option for marine, port and heavy industrial electrical requirements.

4. Ocean Kinetics

Ocean Kinetics provides engineering services to marine, aquaculture and energy clients. Its electrical and controls capability supports fish farms, vessels and processing plants, where reliability is critical.

5. SELECT-Registered Domestic Electricians

Independent domestic electricians registered with SELECT carry out rewires, consumer unit replacements, Electrical Installation Condition Reports and new circuits. Their certification gives homeowners confidence that work meets BS 7671 wiring regulations.

6. Renewable Energy Installers

MCS-certified installers fit solar photovoltaic systems, battery storage and small wind turbines. In Shetland, battery storage is especially valuable for maximising self-generated power and providing backup during outages.

7. Heat Pump Electrical Specialists

Heat pumps require dedicated circuits and careful load management. Electricians who specialise in heat pump installations coordinate with heating engineers to deliver efficient, compliant systems.

8. EV Charging Installers

Electric vehicle ownership is rising across the islands, supported by public charging points in Lerwick and other settlements. Approved installers fit smart home chargers that can schedule charging for off-peak times.

9. Commercial Fit-Out Contractors

Shops, offices and hospitality venues need lighting design, data cabling, emergency lighting and fire alarm systems. Commercial electrical contractors manage these projects to the standards required by insurers and building control.

10. Agricultural and Croft Electricians

Crofts and farms need robust outdoor wiring for sheds, lambing facilities and water pumps. Electricians with agricultural experience use weatherproof enclosures and protective devices suited to damp, windy outdoor environments.

Industry Trends to Watch

Electrification is reshaping demand. Households are replacing oil boilers with heat pumps, adding solar panels and installing EV chargers, often requiring consumer unit upgrades and increased supply capacity. Contractors increasingly offer combined packages that cover design, installation and grant application support through programmes promoted by Home Energy Scotland.

The energy sector is also driving demand for higher-voltage skills. Projects linked to wind, tidal and potential green hydrogen developments around Sullom Voe create opportunities for electricians with industrial experience, and training pathways through Shetland UHI help develop local talent.

How to Pick a Reliable Electrical Contractor

• Verify registration with SELECT, NICEIC or NAPIT.
• Ask for certificates on completion, including an Electrical Installation Certificate.
• Check experience with the specific technology you need, such as batteries or heat pumps.
• Get a written quote with clear timescales and material specifications.
• Ensure the contractor holds suitable public liability insurance.

What Drives the Cost of Electrical Work in Shetland

Several factors influence pricing. Travel time and ferry fares add cost for projects in the outer isles, while materials shipped from the mainland may carry freight charges. The age of a property also matters; older croft houses often need more extensive upgrades to bring wiring up to modern standards before new equipment can be added. Larger projects, such as solar and battery installations, can require a supply upgrade from the network operator, which should be factored into timelines.

Planning several electrical tasks together, such as a consumer unit upgrade, EV charger and additional sockets, usually works out more economical than separate visits. Reputable contractors will be happy to discuss phasing work to suit your budget while keeping every stage safe and compliant.

Final Word

Shetland's electrical contractors are working at the meeting point of traditional island living and a cutting-edge energy future. Whether you need a simple rewire in Scalloway or a full renewable energy system on a croft in Yell, choosing an accredited, experienced contractor ensures safety, efficiency and long-term value.