Marine energy park is a beacon for business
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Greg Barker said the far north and the Northern Isles will play a vital part in meeting the country’s energy needs, stating the Government is now making a big step towards reinforcing its support to the renewable industry.
The UK energy and climate change minister was at Scrabster on Monday to make the official announcement the Pentland Firth has become the second designated area in the country for marine and tidal energy development.
The designation is designed to link university researchers and private companies working in marine energy.
Speaking to the Caithness Courier, Mr Barker said the coalition Government is doubling its financial support in marine energy through its renewable obligations.
But he said it is important the right infrastructure is in place and planning takes place for the long term to meet its targets.
“It is important to create a clustering effect which brings together the key manufacturers, developers, local governments and financiers,” he said.
“Creating a centre of excellence is giving a signal to the market that marine energy is hear to stay and if you are in that market you should make a beeline for this area.
“We are sending out a big signal that the UK is backing marine energy – there is nothing new about renewable energy as people have been speaking about it since the 1970s but it has never taken off at the pace and scale it has had to.
“We are trying to provide a step change in ambition and deployment, putting in real investment by giving a strong signal to the market that we are committed to developing the marine sector in a way that hasn’t been seen before.”
South-west England was declared the first marine energy park in the UK in January, which sparked talks with government ministers about establishing the same designation in the north of Scotland.
Caithness, Sutherland and East Ross MP John Thurso led the talks.
He said that the area’s new status will have more of an impact than just a new name.
“People would not be here if it was just a flag at the door, this is something of substance,” he said.
“When I heard Mr Barker speak about the prospect of creating these parks across the UK coastline, I immediately saw what it could mean for us in terms of branding and bringing people together.
“This is one of the most important places for marine energy in the world and this is evident by the work that has gone into creating extra workspace at Scrabster harbour.
“With the capital allowances which come with the enterprise zone, all these things are pieces in a jigsaw which will fit towards a future economy post Dounreay.”
The last year has seen major developments in Caithness which are designed to accommodate future renewable development.
Last September, North Highland College UHI opened its £7 million Engineering Technology and Energy Centre in Thurso which is designed to provide trained personnel to meet the future challenges of the energy industry.
The Scottish Government also classed Scrabster harbour as an enterprise zone at the beginning of the year by attracting investment through offering business rate discounts worth up to £275,000 per business or enhanced capital allowances, new streamlined planning protocols along with skills and training support.
