Ambitious plans to create a major renewables hub in Orkney have been accelerated with a £5m grant to help take the project to the next stage.
The funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) 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.
Orkney Islands Council hopes the Scapa Deep Water Quay project will help to attract inward investment to the area while supporting the expansion of wind farms off the coast of Scotland and Europe.
The grant is part of the Scottish Government’s wider strategic investment of up to £500m over five years to develop the offshore wind supply chain.
Announcing the new funding while in Orkney, First Minister John Swinney (pictured right) 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.”
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.”