Renewable energy support is welcomed

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has welcomed the announcement by Energy Secretary, Ed Davey, of an early decision on support for renewable energy produced in the isles.

His comments come after the Energy Secretary co-chaired the Islands Delivery Forum. Mr Davey announced that the UK Government are seeking EU state aid approval for the separate Islands Strike Price.

Mr Davey also announced that strike prices for the isles will be set this year instead of 2016 to give confidence to developers of renewable energy projects on the Isles.

Commenting, Mr Carmichael said: “The Islands Strike Price can provide a level playing field for renewable developers in Orkney and Shetland and will help to unlock the vast potential for renewable energy in the Isles. Ed Davey has demonstrated real commitment to this and I am pleased that this is now bearing fruit.”

He added: “Reaching an agreement on these fronts will require a joint effort between governments, the regulator and the private sector. I am optimistic that we will see progress on these issues in the near future. Ed Davey has listened to the renewables industry in the Isles and has acted. There is still a lot to do but today is an important step forward.”