This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Renewable Realities Conference
15/10/2002
The growth in renewable energy can play a major role in
economic development in rural Scotland, Deputy First
Minister Jim Wallace said today.
Speaking at the Renewable Realities Conference at
Stromness in Orkney, Mr Wallace outlined the employment
benefits that renewable energy had already brought to
Scotland, and discussed future plans for the sector.
The Vestas wind turbine factory at Machrihanish near
Campbeltown, opened by the First Minister in May, was cited
as an example of renewable energy helping revitalise a
rural economy with the return of a local workforce.
Other developments,Mr Wallace added, such as the
Stingray tidal device off Shetland and onshore wind
developments such as at Burgar Hill, will bring benefits to
their local economies.
The Minister said:
"We recognise the economic and environmental advantages
of creating a renewable energy industry. It is important to
keep these benefits in view as we move forward.
"The Executive is determined to help local communities
reap the economic rewards of renewable energy. Plans are
currently underway for the expansion of the wind energy
site on Stronsay, and the Executive has signalled its
commitment to the creation of a European Marine Energy
Centre at Stromness, funding details of which will be
announced by Environment Minister Ross Finnie next
month.
"The Executive has recently published a consultation on
plans to generate 40 per cent of energy requirements from
renewable sources. The growth of this market is expected to
provide real economic opportunities over the coming years,
particularly in Scotland's rural communities."
An exhibition on renewable energy is laid out in the
school games hall at Stromness Academy and opens at
17:00.