Investment in significant offshore wind project.
Ambitious plans to create a major new renewables hub in Orkney
have been accelerated with a £5 million grant to help take the
project to the next stage.
The funding will further the development of a new harbour
facility for the assembly of offshore wind turbines at Scapa Flow
- the largest natural harbour in the northern hemisphere.
The Scapa Deep Water Quay will help to attract inward investment
to the area, creating a new, cutting edge hub for offshore wind -
supporting the expansion of windfarms off the coast of Scotland
and Europe.
The grant comes from Highlands and Islands Enterprise and is part
of the Scottish Government's wider strategic investment of up to
£500 million over five years to develop the offshore wind supply
chain.
Announcing the new funding whilst in Orkney, First Minister
said:
"Accelerating Scotland's offshore wind capabilities is crucial as
we prioritise maximising Scotland's vast potential in renewable
energy. Not only are we striving to take our place at the
forefront of the global green energy revolution, investments like
this help us guarantee a just transition for our existing skilled
workforce, maintaining their vital role in Scotland's energy
landscape.
"This landmark project will help attract private investment in
the area, creating new highly paid jobs and unlocking enormous
economic opportunities for the Orkney Islands and Scotland as a
whole. This is another example of how, together with local
government and our partners, we are delivering on our collective
priorities of growing the economy and protecting the planet."
Director of Strategic Projects at HIE David Oxley said:
"Scotland has been at the forefront of renewable energy
development and Orkney has been at the heart of this for the past
20 years. The proposed Scapa Deep Water Quay is set to help
advance the industry to the next level It will help attract
inward investment, create jobs and drive economic growth in
Orkney, the Highlands and Islands and across Scotland, as well as
contributing to the country's net zero ambitions.
"This funding for the PCSA will ensure the council has access to
all the information it needs to make an informed decision and
bring the project to the next stage."
Leader of Orkney Islands Council Councillor Heather Woodbridge
said:
"This funding award from HIE, demonstrates the Scottish
Government's understanding of the importance of the energy
sector, not only here in Orkney but to Scotland as a whole.
Securing the funding unlocks the potential for Orkney – alongside
the wider industry - to further explore and develop a vision for
our role in the continued growth of renewable energy, and is
reflective of the good work, prominence, and reputation of our
islands in this.
"Development of facilities in Scapa Flow could deliver
considerable economic benefits to the area – especially as we
look to counterbalance any potential downturn in the oil
industry. Enhancing our marine capabilities and strengthening our
capacity to support future industrial and commercial activities
is key to this."
