Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Great British Energy (GBE) have signed a partnership agreement to accelerate the UK’s clean energy transition.
The deal was signed in Inverness on 31 July during a GBE visit to the Highlands and Islands.
It sets out a shared commitment to identify joint priorities and maximise economic and community benefits in the region.
The collaboration covers clean energy generation and storage, supply chain development and community energy initiatives.
HIE and GBE will explore how GBE can invest in the region through HIE’s network of developers and projects, while also seeking other sources of funding.
The agreement includes sharing expertise to support clean energy deployment across the UK.
HIE chief executive Stuart Black (pictured, right) said: “When it comes to supporting the clean energy transition, we share many interests and responsibilities with GBE. It makes perfect sense to set the parameters for a working relationship that helps further the aims and objectives of both organisations.”
GBE chair Juergen Maier (pictured, left) added: “There are significant opportunities to further develop supply chains to support the growing offshore wind developments in the area.”
GBE’s visit included stops at Ardersier, Cromarty Firth and Nigg ports, as well as meetings with developers and supply chain firms across multiple technologies.