Scotland Invests £150M to Power Up Offshore Wind Future

Offshore wind development in Scotland is set to benefit from £150 million in government funding, as revealed in the draft Scottish Budget for 2025/2026. Shona Robison, Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Finance, emphasised that this funding aims to attract an additional £1.5 billion in private investment to develop the infrastructure and manufacturing facilities vital for advancing the sector. This initiative is part of the Scottish Government’s broader commitment to invest up to £500 million in offshore wind over the next 5 years, highlighting its strategic importance.

Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, welcomed the announcement, stating: “In a time of tight public budgets, it is encouraging to see the Scottish Government prioritising renewable energy investment, recognising it as our most significant driver of economic growth. In particular, we are pleased to see confirmation of the next tranche of funding previously committed to the offshore wind supply chain. It is also encouraging to see the revenues from ScotWind directly utilised for clean industrial growth alongside more resourcing into the planning system.”

Mack stated that the industry body will collaborate closely with the Scottish Government to shape the use of this funding within the broader investment framework, aiming to attract substantial private capital into infrastructure and manufacturing. This partnership seeks to maximise Scotland’s potential in the offshore wind sector. She added, “On a wider scale, we will also advocate for turning ambitions in skills development and heat decarbonisation into tangible actions.”

Myrtle Dawes, Chief Executive of the Net Zero Technology Centre in Scotland, expressed strong support for the commitment. “Scotland has all the ingredients needed to become Europe’s net-zero capital,” Dawes stated. “For decades, Aberdeen and the northeast have led energy innovation, leveraging talent, advanced technology, and abundant wind power.”

Alongside this, a £150 million upgrade to Ayrshire’s Hunterston marine yard has received planning approval, enabling growth in offshore wind power along the UK’s west coast. Peel Ports Clydeport will oversee the redevelopment, which includes filling the dry-dock basin and constructing a new quay wall. Work is set to begin in early 2025 and last about 2 years.

The site will also host Highview Power’s planned Liquid Air Energy Storage (LAES) facility, the world’s largest, as part of a series of renewable energy projects. The redevelopment is expected to attract £3.5 billion in investment and create over 5,000 jobs. Check out the Institute’s new job page to get inspiration for your renewables career and see our employment partners.

The Renewable Energy Institute offers an accredited course in Wind Power, designed to help you gain in-depth knowledge and skills in this fast-growing field. You can study remotely from anywhere in the world, making it accessible and flexible for busy schedules. Join participants from over 150 countries and benefit from a global learning community while earning an internationally recognised certificate that supports your career in renewable energy.

Sources:

https://renews.biz/97488/scotland-earmarks-150m-for-offshore-wind

https://renews.biz/97474/scottish-port-upgrade-gets-green-light