Calls for an Orkney base for Wave Energy Scotland

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur met with the Scottish Government Energy Minister, Fergus Ewing MSP yesterday to discuss the future of the wave energy sector following a series of set-backs in recent weeks.

Mr McArthur asked for the meeting following news that Pelamis Wave Power had gone into administration and that Aquamarine Power would be downsizing their workforce.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr McArthur said: “Recent announcements by Pelamis and Aquamarine Power have sounded alarm bells, but I firmly believe wave technology has a vital role to play in our future energy mix.

“At my meeting today with the Energy Minister, I reinforced the need for government to fully back the sector. This will involve setting out as early as possible the precise remit, function and budget of Wave Energy Scotland, which itself must be industry-led. It will also require a clear vision to be established.

“In addition, I made the argument that WES should be largely based in Orkney. Given how central the islands have been to the development of wave energy, and the presence of EMEC in Orkney, the case seems compelling. The Minister was sympathetic but I will now be following this up with Highlands & Islands Enterprise, who lead on this issue.

“Finally, I highlighted concerns about the treatment of staff who have lost their jobs in recent weeks, many of whom have been left without pay for work already done. This has added insult to injury and does nothing for the reputation of the sector. The Minister offered to investigate this in more detail.

“These are uncertain times for the wave energy sector. It is all the more important therefore that political support remains firm and an eye is focused on the longer term objectives.”