WIREDGOV

Offshore wind will deliver a whole new industry and a bright future for Scotland, new Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said recently on his first engagement.

Addressing the Power of Partnerships conference in Rosyth, co-hosted by Babcock International Group, Fife Council and Carnegie College, Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said:

"Our new target of generating 100 per cent of Scotland's electricity needs from renewables by 2020 is one of the most demanding anywhere in the world. It is necessary if we are to become the green energy powerhouse of Europe. I also think it's achievable. A strong and vibrant offshore wind sector is at the heart of our vision to create new, low carbon jobs and industries.

"Total planned offshore wind development in waters around Scotland already amounts to almost 10 Gigawatts of capacity, more than Scotland's peak demand. We have recently seen planned inward investment of around £300 million to develop the next generation of offshore wind turbines in Scotland. Yet there is capacity for so much more and we are now moving on to examine the further 25 offshore sites already identified for exploration in the medium term.

"We will continue to work in partnership with industry to boost manufacturing and ports infrastructure, through the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan. We've matched the Plan with a £70 million Fund that targets investment in port and near port manufacturing locations for offshore wind and have already had a hugely positive response to our initial call for proposals. I look forward to progressing that.

"But we want to go further and secure more - much more - international investment on Scotland's shores. To do that, we need a workforce with the right skills, in the right places, at the right time and in the right numbers. Carnegie College is a great example. Working with some of the UK's leading companies, it is developing the UK's first Wind Turbine Technician Modern Apprenticeship to give people the best training available. That successful collaboration is vital right across the board and I look forward to working with the whole industry in my new role."

An offshore wind portal was launched last week to showcase what Scotland can offer indigenous industry and new investors.

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