Islands take message to London

Western Isles officials have met with senior energy figures from the Scottish National, Labour and Liberal Democrat parties in London in support of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s submission to the BEIS consultation on non-mainland wind.   

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar leader Angus Campbell outlined the economic benefits that could be achieved by the establishment of a renewables industry in the Outer Hebrides, as well as the benefits to the UK consumer.

Campbell said he was heartened by the quality of submissions to the recent islands wind consultation and the “unanimity of purpose behind these submissions”. 

He said: “Virtually every respondent understood the benefits to be achieved from wind energy and the need for an inter-connector to achieve that potential.

“There was a high level of understanding around the need for large commercial projects to underwrite and fund the significant cost of the inter-connector.”

Campbell also welcomed the goodwill of politicians from all parties that he met in London.

“They understand how the regulatory system works and what is required if the transformational benefits of renewable energy is to be delivered in the Outer Hebrides.

“I was extremely heartened by their positive commitment to the islands and their willingness to proactively work with us and to proactively engage with government, to ensure these benefits are delivered.”

Representatives of the Comhairle will also be meeting with government ministers, BEIS officials and representatives of the Climate Change Committee today.

Image: Mi9