ARIANE BURGESS: Transformative approach to renewables is needed
Holyrood Notebook by Ariane Burgess
The climate emergency is a pressing issue that threatens the future of our planet, especially for young people today and generations to come.
A swift transition to renewable energy is imperative to mitigate the worst effects of climate change and ensure a sustainable future.
Caithness and Sutherland, an area with exceptional wind resources, is uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in this transformation. However, the proliferation of wind farms in the region has understandably raised concerns among many residents.
While the need for renewable energy is undeniable, it’s equally important to ensure that its development benefits local communities. The “crumbs” of community benefit payments from large corporations are insufficient to address the long-term economic and social needs of our region.
A more transformative approach is necessary. I envision a streamlined process that empowers communities to take ownership of wind energy projects. By purchasing shares, communities can directly benefit from the income generated, creating a sustainable revenue stream for generations to come.
Government support is essential to facilitate this process, providing guidance, funding, and technical assistance to communities interested in pursuing community ownership.
Two excellent examples of community initiatives working on community shares of renewable energy are Highland People Power and Moray Community Energy. These organisations are paving the way for communities to take ownership of renewable energy projects and reap the rewards.
Speaking with people involved with both initiatives I’ve learned first-hand that the process for volunteer-led community involvement needs to be streamlined. Each energy company has a different approach to community shares and involvement.
If we are to attract companies to invest in Scotland, the Scottish Government needs to ensure that there is a standard process in terms of engagement with communities. This way communities would only have to learn one system to be able to engage with all the companies seeking to invest in that part of the region.
I’m proud to be advocating for community ownership and a national community wealth fund in the Scottish parliament. These initiatives are essential for ensuring that the benefits of renewable energy are shared equitably across Scotland. By supporting community-led projects and investing in local initiatives, we can create a more just and sustainable future for all.
Community ownership of renewable energy is not just about economic benefits; it’s also about empowerment. By taking ownership of their energy resources, communities gain agency to chart their own future. This independence can lead to increased resilience, reduced reliance on external forces, and a stronger sense of community.
The potential benefits of community-owned renewable energy are immense. Beyond economic gains, such projects can foster a sense of ownership, pride and community spirit. They can also contribute to local job creation, skills development, and investment in essential services.
Of course, not all communities are blessed with abundant wind resources. To ensure that the benefits of renewable energy are shared equitably across Scotland, we need to establish a national community wealth fund.
This fund would allocate resources to support vital projects in communities that may not have access to renewable energy opportunities. By investing in local initiatives, we can create a more just and sustainable future for all.
The choice before us is clear. We can either resist the inevitable transition to renewable energy, or we can actively shape its trajectory to ensure that it benefits our communities. By embracing community ownership and supporting a national wealth fund, we can create a sustainable, prosperous, and equitable future for Caithness and Sutherland and the rest of Scotland.
• Ariane Burgess is a Scottish Gren MSP for the Highlands and Islands.
