Navigating the Energy Transition: Professor Andrew Jennings Presents at the Energy Ethics Conference
On Thursday 5th August 2026, Professor of Island Studies Andrew Jennings of the University of the Highlands and Islands Institute for Northern Studies, presents a paper titled ‘The Shetland Model’ to the Infrastructures of Energy Panel at the ‘Energy Ethics 2026: Infrastructure of Energy Conference’.
The online conference will be held from August 4th to August 6th, 2026, and will focus on the critical issues related to the transition from fossil fuels to more decarbonised energy systems. In light of the climate crisis and the desire to take the lead in emerging Net Zero markets, many countries are now pursuing energy transitions that reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. However, we are also witnessing policy reversals regarding climate targets, societal challenges to these transitions, and investors returning to fossil fuel opportunities.
The conference will explore several key questions: What is at stake with our energy infrastructures? How can meaningful change be achieved? What visions of human flourishing, as well as the flourishing of other life forms, are supported by our energy infrastructures?
The ‘Infrastructure of Energy Panel’ will examine the transition to renewable energy systems by examining cultural heritage and perceptions in two island contexts: Shetland, UK, and Newfoundland, Canada. In both regions, fossil fuel development has significantly influenced local cultures, including material and visual arts and workplace culture. Additionally, oil infrastructure has dramatically altered both terrestrial and offshore landscapes.
As the United Kingdom and Canada work towards developing low-carbon and renewable energy sectors—such as wind and green hydrogen—existing cultural norms shaped by the petroleum industry are coming into conflict with the technological, socio-economic, and infrastructural aspects of this energy transition.
Professor Andrew Jennings' paper examines "The Shetland Model" from the 1970s, which served as a global benchmark for community benefits and continues to benefit Shetland today. Empowered by the Zetland County Council Act of 1974, local leaders acted as gatekeepers to the North Sea oil industry, securing a "disturbance allowance" that transformed the islands' economy.
Professor Jennings goes on to say, “This paper contrasts that statutory achievement with the contentious reality of the modern Viking Energy wind farm and discusses why this model has not successfully transitioned to the renewable sector. This can be summarised in three words: leverage, finance, and consensus—or the lack thereof. The community unity experienced during the oil era has given way to deep divisions, as the Council's dual role as both developer and planner for Viking Energy has eroded public trust. Was the "Shetland Model" merely a historical anomaly, or can the 1974 Act be repurposed to regain leverage over the emerging offshore wind sector?”