Meeting with energy minister to discuss the future of wave energy

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has secured a meeting with energy minister, Fergus Ewing to discuss the future of the wave energy sector as well as wider plans for investing in grid infrastructure in the islands.

Mr McArthur said: “These are challenging times for those involved in the wave energy sector.  With significant investment taking place in a range of countries across the world, the lead that has been built up on the back of work undertaken in Orkney is at risk of being eroded.

“The creation of Wave Energy Scotland can help ensure this does not happen, but it cannot do it alone.  Other initiatives will be necessary.

“It will also require a clearer commitment by the Scottish Government and its agencies to keep Orkney at the centre of efforts to build the wave energy sector.  I welcome the Minister’s willingness to meet with me and local stakeholders in Orkney to discuss how this can be achieved”.

On the issue of interconnectors, Mr McArthur said: “The meeting with the minister will also allow for further discussion about the critical issue of interconnectors.  I welcome the fact that the ministerial island working group is set to continue, despite the change of government at Westminster.

“As Mr Ewing acknowledged, the working relationship with the former UK Energy Secretary, Ed Davey was a positive and constructive one.  If there is to be progress in delivering the grid infrastructure Orkney’s renewable sector so desperately needs, maintaining these good relationships will be essential.”