Holyrood debate highlights support for island renewables

Speaking in a debate in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday, Orkney MSP Liam McArthur reinforced the need for progress in addressing the grid and transmission charging issues that are holding back renewables developments in Orkney and other island areas.

Mr McArthur said: “The independent analysis commissioned by the joint working group set up by both Scotland’s governments, underscores the opportunities and barriers to unlocking the renewables potential of our islands.  It also confirms the importance of doing so if we are to meet our renewables and climate change targets.

“With longer term job creating potential estimated at 4,500 in Orkney and almost 11,000 across all three main island groups, the prize here is one we must grab with both hands.”

He added that addressing delays in installing and upgrading grid infrastructure must also be a priority.

“Collaboration between governments north and south of the border remains critical if we are to deliver the changes needed to unlock the renewables potential of our islands.  Today’s debate confirmed that there is a willingness to do this, armed with the findings of the island working group’s report”.