Offshore wind developers, supply chain companies and government will come together in Edinburgh on 02 May to maximise the offshore renewables sector.
Finance Secretary Derek Mackay MSP will co-host the summit with UK Energy Minister Claire Perry MP.
Mr Mackay said:
“Scotland has all the natural resources required to make it an ideal location for offshore wind and we must ensure our economy isn’t missing out because of key contracts going overseas. We are committed to maximising the sector in Scotland and need the entire industry to work together.
“This summit will allow us to talk directly with key developers and suppliers to establish what more we can do to help. The SNP Government will examine the consent process to ensure we use the powers at our disposal to retain and expand work in Scotland. I plan to hear directly from the developers and suppliers on their investment plans which once implemented will grow our renewables economy.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“Despite damaging policy changes from the UK Government since 2015, the SNP Goverment continues to provide strong support for Scotland's renewable energy sector, which is now paying off.
“In 2018, Scotland saw a big increase in electricity generated via offshore wind, with capacity and generation both more than doubling compared to 2017.
“In November, 109% Scotland's electricity demands were met by wind power for the first time and the SNP Government is providing a further £2 million this year to support innovation and help reduce the costs of offshore wind.
“The sector has the potential to create huge value and significant employment across the entire Scottish economy and supply chain. The SNP Government will therefore continue to support its expansion.”
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