Scotland’s coastal and island communities could benefit from offshore renewable energy developments that are tailor-made for the locations, according to a new report commissioned by Crown Estate Scotland.
The study, which was carried out by Everoze, looked at six scenarios linked to a number of renewable technologies – including floating wind, wave and tidal energy.
It analysed how the technologies could support the development of key industries, such as whisky and salmon farming, in coastal locations.
The report also looked at how the public, private and community sectors can work together to bring down barriers to the development of local level offshore renewables.
Crown Estate Scotland head of marine Colin Palmer (pictured) said: “This study emphasises that even in Scotland’s most remote locations there could be opportunities to develop energy solutions.
“Providing the right technology can be matched to the right setting, there is huge potential for communities across Scotland to benefit from a wide range of technologies suited to their needs.”
Highlands and Islands Enterprise director of energy and low carbon Audrey MacIver said: “We share a common interest with Crown Estate Scotland in realising the benefits from offshore renewables in our coastal communities.
“Understanding the potential for emerging technologies, such as wave, tidal and floating wind, to contribute towards a more local, low carbon decentralised energy system is a helpful step forward in facilitating both community engagement and in driving forward the commercial development of these technologies.”