The timing of the offshore wind sector deal between industry and the UK government is perfect for Scotland, where the speed of development is set to hit top gear after recent false starts, according to Scottish Renewables senior policy advisor Fabrice Leveque.
“The benefits that are being realised in places like Hull and Lowestoft are now starting to appear in Scotland’s coastal towns and cities like Wick and Invergordon, heralding a new, sustainable energy future from the seas,” he said.
Scottish energy minister Paul Wheelhouse (pictured) also welcomed the deal.
“Scotland is internationally recognised as a key location in the development of the offshore wind sector with world leading projects in both fixed-bottom and floating offshore wind,” he said.
“Our Energy Strategy clearly sets out our ambitions for the sector and the opportunities we see for continued innovation.
“Offshore wind has a key role to play in achieving our ambitious energy targets and delivering a low-carbon energy system.
“The publication of the offshore wind sector deal today is a contract between government and industry to deliver further on these ambitions, setting challenging goals and committing to collaborative working.
“Offshore wind brings growth and high value jobs to Scotland’s economy so we will work closely with the UK government and industry to ensure all the opportunities in this deal are maximised and developments in Scotland optimise their impact on the Scottish and UK economies.”
Crown Estate Scotland head of marine Colin Palmer said: “This sector deal provides an opportunity for Scotland to further strengthen and develop its offshore wind supply chain.
“Combined with our new ScotWind leasing round to be launched later this year, it gives the sector confidence to commit to, invest in, and work with others in Scotland to create jobs and affordable clean energy.”