First Minister unveils green investment

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2009-06-12

First Minister Alex Salmond today unveiled £200 million of investment in Scottish businesses as a result of a new windfarm development.

 £200 million of contracts will be placed with businesses in Scotland for the development of Clyde wind farm, including £10 million for Welcon Towers at Machrihanish to supply turbine towers - after the Scottish Government secured jobs at the Macrihanish plant.

The First Minister said:

"The sheer scale of the Clyde wind farm reflects Scotland's ambition and ability to become the clean, green energy capital of Europe.

"The development of Europe's largest single consented on-shore wind farm in South Lanarkshire reinforces the Scottish Government's commitment to reduce harmful emissions while capitalising on the vast opportunities renewable energy presents.

"The Clyde wind farm is a #500 million development that will direct more than #200 million of investment to businesses in Scotland. I am delighted that the towers for this groundbreaking 152 turbine development will be manufactured right here in Scotland.

Speaking as he cut the turf at the new windfarm development Mr Salmond said;

"Scotland boasts a clear, competitive advantage in the development of clean, green energy sources with 25 per cent of Europe's offshore wind and tidal power. Scotland's potential for renewables is up to 60GW - more than ten times our peak demand.

"The Scottish Government is committed to capitalising on these natural resources which is why we have already approved 22 renewable energy projects since May 2007.

"I recently 'switched on' Europe's largest operating wind farm at Whitelees and I am confident that the Clyde wind farm will build on this landmark development, reinforcing Scotland's role as a global powerhouse of clean energy."

 

SNP MSP Aileen Campbell who joined the First Minister at the opening of the site said; 

"The First Minister’s presence at the turf-cutting is a huge vote of confidence in this project.

"The windfarm will not only provide clean, green energy, but will help to secure jobs in the local area and across the country.

"Earlier this week I met with representatives of Airtricity to discuss plans to make sure that local people feel a direct benefit from the community fund which is being set up.

"I am keenly aware that there remains some local concern about the impact of the development, and want to make sure the community most affected share in the funds that the site will generate, as well as the energy."