Councillors Agree Action Plan For Offshore Renewable Energy

20th January 2011

Members of the Planning, Environment and Development Committee have agreed a 10 point action plan for offshore renewable energy development which will assist The Highland Council to deliver set objectives for the economy, communities and the environment.

The Action Plan, which received cross party support, covers issues surrounding infrastructure, the supply chain, community benefit and workforce and skills.

Chairman of The PED Committee, Councillor Ian Ross welcomed the move forward. He said: "Creating this Action Plan underlines the importance we put on ensuring we maximise the benefits of offshore renewable energy. There is a huge potential for both employment and economic benefits. We want to ensure we strategically deliver successful local outcomes that link to limiting the impact of the recession and promoting economic growth, reducing carbon emissions and ensuring communities take a greater role in shaping their future.

"The Action Plan should be seen very much as a dynamic live document which will remain active and Members of the PED Committee will have the opportunity to review the Plan on a regular on-going basis. Offshore Renewable Energy is of national importance and of particular significance to the Highlands so I look forward to similar plans being produced at a national Government level, a Scottish Government level and by the Crown Estate."

The Highland Council's Action Plan will now be published and promoted among all Highland & Islands local authorities, MPs and MSPs. Work will continue on a separate Action Plan to underpin the anticipated Memorandum of Understanding currently being discussed at a Highlands and Islands level with the Crown Estate Commissioners. The Council will also contribute fully to the current Scottish Government consultation on securing the benefits of Scotland next energy revolution