The Scottish Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to create a major renewables hub in Orkney with a £5 million grant to help take the project to the next stage.

The funding will go towards the development of the Scapa Deep Water Quay, a harbour facility for the assembly of offshore wind turbines, in the hope that the new development will attract inward investment to the area and create a hub for offshore wind.

According to the government the plan will support the expansion of windfarms off the coast of Scotland and Europe, and with a water depth of 15-20 metres, it should also be able to support the largest vessels as well as store large assembly components.

This latest grant stems from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and forms part of the Scottish Government’s wider strategic investment of up to £500 million over five years to develop the offshore wind supply chain.

“Accelerating Scotland’s offshore wind capabilities is crucial as we prioritise maximising Scotland’s vast potential in renewable energy,” said first minister, John Swinney.

“This landmark project will help attract private investment in the area, creating new highly paid jobs and unlocking enormous economic opportunities for the Orkney Islands and Scotland as a whole. 

“This is another example of how, together with local government and our partners, we are delivering on our collective priorities of growing the economy and protecting the planet.”

The deep water quay joins other energy projects dotted around Scotland’s northern coast which are attracting millions in investment. 

Last year, the nearby Ardersier Port secured a £100 million joint credit facility from the Scottish National Investment Bank and UK Infrastructure Bank to support offshore wind development, while the area is also home to the Flotta terminal, where Spanish owner Repsol is considering plans for a green hydrogen facility.

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“Scotland has been at the forefront of renewable energy development and Orkney has been at the heart of this for the past 20 years,” said David Oxley, director of strategic projects at Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

“The proposed Scapa Deep Water Quay is set to help advance the industry to the next level It will help attract inward investment, create jobs and drive economic growth in Orkney, the Highlands and Islands and across Scotland, as well as contributing to the country’s net zero ambitions.”