‘Back marine power’ plea to ministers

Report: Sector can become a global leader

The value of marine energy to northern Scotland is highlighted in a report urging the UK Government to include wave and tidal power in its industrial strategy.

Industry body RenewableUK is holding a wave and tidal energy conference in London today.

It has identified “clusters” around the country which are benefiting most from the industry.

They include the Highlands and islands, Wales, south-west England and the Solent.

Hugh McNeal, RenewableUK’s chief executive, said: “This is a cuttingedge industry creating much-needed jobs in the Highlands and islands and throughout

“It will grow worldwide with opportunities to export our technology across the globe.

“But other countries, such as China and Canada, are eyeing our industry enviously, seeking to capitalise on the hard-won progress made in British waters.”

Mr McNeal said it was “vital” the government recognises wave and tidal power is “transforming coastal communities around the UK.”

He added: “Marine energy can become a key industrial sector.

“To make this happen, we’re urging ministers to include wave and tidal power in their industrial strategy.”

Atlantis Resources, Scotland. developers of the MeyGen tidal array, and Scotrenewables Tidal Power, which is testing a massive tidal stream turbine at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney, both feature in the report.

EMEC and Scotrenewables are among nine organisations and companies from Orkney taking part in today’s event.

Neil Kermode, EMEC’s managing director, said: “Orkney is perceived to be far flung.

“However, we know that when it comes to marine energy and energy innovation more generally, Orkney is far from peripheral.

“More wave and tidal energy converters have been tested here than anywhere in the world.”

“Orkney is a living laboratory, one that proves investment in innovation creates jobs, as well as huge export opportunities.

“Local companies are already exporting their knowledge, so the rest of the UK has an opportunity to capitalise on our global lead.”

Scottish Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse and Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael will speak at the event.

“Countries such as China want to capitalise on the progress made here”