Highland Council backs report calling for greater “reward” for the Highlands from huge energy company profits
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Highland Council is backing calls for the Highlands to “receive far greater recognition and reward” for huge profits drawn by energy companies.
A full meeting of councillors endorsed a report on unlocking green energy prospects in the region.
Opportunities highlighted in the report included ways in which community benefits could be developed to deliver better outcomes for the Highlands.
During the debate at full council on Thursday, members endorsed the report by interim depute chief executive Kate Lackie and climate change manager Neil Osborne.
Concern was also expressed about the very high cost of energy in the Highlands and the extent of fuel poverty across the region.
Elected members agreed that work be undertaken to set out what the council’s demands should be for a Highland Infrastructure Fund.
Linked to this, members agreed to devise a Community Wealth Building Strategy enabling all parts of the Highlands to share in benefits arising from the green energy revolution and the drive to deliver net zero, as well as gain community value from local supply chains.
The report also set out how the council could make income from developing renewable energy schemes of its own and in partnership with others.
Members noted that costed proposals will be put forward for approval as part of the budget-setting process next year.
The report highlighted challenges in relation to future capacity and grid constraints which was also picked up during the debate.
It was noted that investment in network developments were needed to maintain energy resilience and reliability in Highland communities, but also to support the ambitions of the region to deliver a lasting legacy.
The focus was on income generation, skills development, broadening employment opportunities and housing.
However, it was acknowledged that communities hold significant concerns about the impact of infrastructure developments, necessitating a “balanced approach” to development.
Highland Council leader, Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “A sustainable Highland environment and global centre for renewable energy is one of the five key themes in the council’s programme 2022-2027.
“This commits the council to accelerate its response to the climate and ecological emergency and make the most of the financial and environmental opportunities arising from the huge renewable energy potential of the Highlands.
“Scotland is in a strong position to lead an energy transition that secures net zero, enhances energy security, and lowers energy costs for consumers.
“Highland provides possibly the best prospects for delivering these outcomes.
“However, there are significant constraints in terms of grid capacity and energy policy.
“In order to capitalise on these opportunities, the Highland Council needs to work with the Scottish and UK Governments, network operators and energy suppliers, commercial partners and communities to lobby for change; maximise funding availability; and develop green energy schemes that not only deliver financial returns to the Council over the short, medium and long term, but also ensure that the Highlands benefits as a whole from the green energy revolution.”
As set out in a report to council, dated June 2023, Renewable Investment in Solar and Battery Storage, Highland Council is developing a plan aimed at transforming its regional infrastructure, with the aim of offering “substantial business opportunities” in the renewable energy sector.
A detailed portfolio plan for renewables investment will be presented to members as part of the council’s budget in February 2024.
