Arnish at forefront of the renewable energy push

Arnish at forefront of the renewable energy push

THE future role of Arnish in the burgeoning offshore renewable energy market is being underlined as the views of the public are being sought on the sites earmarked for investment.

The Arnish yard, currently operated by BiFab Stornoway, is one of six sites identified by the Scottish Government as crucial locations playing a key role in the expanding offshore renewables market.

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The other sites being flagged up are Nigg, Ardersier, Campbeltown/Machrihanish, and Kishorn.

The latest report drawn up for the Scottish Government recommends that the Scottish sites are developed into three regional manufacturing.

These clusters would then support the fabrication of offshore wind farm components and tap into the wealth of subsea expertise that already exists in Scotland.

It states that a total private and public investment of 223 million would assist the creation of 11 offshore wind manufacturing sites in three regional clusters.

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Taken together these sites could support the creation of up to 5,180 jobs and an annual economic impact of up to 294.5 million each year.

Also emphasised is the case for the 185 million Fossil Fuel Levy to be released by the UK Treasury to accelerate the promotion and development of renewable energy in Scotland.

The public are being invited to have their say on the Stage Two report of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan (N-RIP) and the accompanying Environmental Report and four Appendices.

The N-RIP report has been published by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Scottish Enterprise (SE), and the SEA Report by the Scottish Government in conjunction with HIE and SE.

The reports have been published at www.hie.co.uk and responses can be sent by email to [email protected]

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