Scots eye £725m island potential

Scotland’s island economies could reap a £725m windfall over the next 25 years if further renewable energy projects are deployed.

A new Baringa report concludes that the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland have the potential to supply up to 5% of the total UK electricity demand by 2030.

Commissioned by the Scottish government, the study points out that investment in grid infrastructure and wave, wind and tidal generating assets are needed to facilitate the growth.

In addition, the report finds that community-owned projects could achieve revenues of up to £390m with some 2000 jobs on the line.

Energy minister Fergus Ewing said: “This report confirms the potential of the vast renewable resources of our islands. They are arguably the best places in Europe to deliver renewable energy.

“The potential considerable economic and employment benefits from renewables means it is vital for the UK Government to deliver on their commitment to the islands.”

Ewing said he has asked DECC Secretary of State Amber Rudd to produce a “viable package of support” for the required grid infrastructure works.

“With high levels of fuel poverty in the islands it is necessary to deliver the unleashed potential of island renewables which will provide huge quantities of electricity but also provide enormous benefits to the people on the islands which could be used to help combat the problems of fuel poverty and rural deprivation,” Ewing added.

Image: Orkney (Heriot Watt University)