This is a momentous day for the islanders of Eigg, and it can be summed up in one word: Electricity. I listened to BBC Radio Four's Today programme this morning and thought this was very interesting.
Eigg is a small Scottish isle with a population of about 65. It is roughly twice the size of Rathlin Island which is off the north coast of Northern Ireland. The Eigg islanders, until now, have never enjoyed the luxury (which most people take for granted) of electricity. They have used small generators along with all the bother that entails: Fuel to keep them running; only using them when really essential; breaking down occasionally etc.
I listened to a few islanders joking about not being able to use toasters, electric kettles, even washing machines. One man talked of having to run out to his generator in his underwear to start the contraption during an emergency.
So let's spare a thought for Eigg and its hardy islanders; and the electricity supply which has transformed their lives forever.
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