New hospital offers renewables potential – McArthur

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has secured agreement from Scottish ministers to look at possible derogations to planning regulations that would allow Orkney’s new hospital to take advantage of local sources of renewable energy.

During General Questions in parliament this morning, Mr McArthur raised the issue with planning minister, Derek Mackay who confirmed that he has asked officials to look at ways in which “flexibility” could be provided to enable this to happen.

Mr McArthur said: “Last year, Orkney generated more renewable electricity than it used, hitting the government’s 100 per cent target well ahead of the 2020 deadline.  This impressive achievement has required considerable innovation but it has also placed serious pressure on the local grid.

“One way of easing that pressure is to identify potential local sources of electricity demand that could make use of what is being produced in our islands.  An obvious example, of course, is the proposed new hospital building.”

He added: “At present, however, achieving these benefits could be thwarted due to aspects of planning regulation.  I am very pleased, therefore, that the minister has agreed to look at possible derogations to those regulations.

“Hopefully, with a little flexibility, Orkney can have a hospital that delivers excellent patient care, while taking advantage of our world class natural resources and easing pressure on the local grid.  This seems to be a win-win-win situation.”