Co-operation needed on transmission charges – McArthur

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has pressed the First Minister to build the broadest possible coalition in support of efforts to persuade Ofgem to reduce transmission charges for renewable energy generators in the isles.

Commenting on the exchange during First Ministers Questions, Mr McArthur said: “Following the Ofgem announcement on transmission charges, it looks like renewable energy projects on the Scottish mainland will become more affordable.  However, this has only served to highlight the extent to which the needs of our islands remain unresolved.

“I welcome the commitment to bring together all those with an interest in this issue early in the new year.  This follows discussions I had, along with the convener and chief executive of Orkney Islands Council, with the energy minister earlier this week.  All agreed that a focus can now usefully be brought to bear in making a specific case for lower transmission charges for renewables developments in and around Scotland’s islands.

“For Scotland and indeed the UK to meet their renewable and climate change targets will require the islands, particularly Orkney, to achieve their full potential in terms of renewables.  Without a resolution to the transmission issue, however, this will be impossible.

“In that context, I welcome the First Minister’s commitment today to work with others in shaping a response to Ofgem’s consultation that will genuinely prove unanswerable.”