Windfarm developers and education officials joined forces yesterday to create a new graduate scheme in the north.
German firm WKN AG has agreed to fund the scheme with North Highland College if its plans for 22 turbines on the Sallachy and Duchally estates near Lairg are approved by Scottish ministers.
The company has also agreed to work with energy trade association Energy North to help local businesses play a part in constructing the windfarm.
Stuart Gibb, director of the Environmental Research College at North Highland College, said yesterday that the scheme, which will cost around £100,000, would create up to five placements for graduates who live in the Highlands and islands with companies from a range of industries. The graduates will work for the companies for around 12 to 15 months.
He said: “This project will help deliver long-term and sustainable benefits for the area.
“Graduates will contribute to the businesses they are working for while developing their own skills.”
Oliver Patent, head of international project development for WKN, said the firm tries to contribute to local community wherever its projects go ahead.
Mr Patent said of the graduate scheme: “This will enable young people to stay in the Highlands as well as grow the renewable economy in the area.”
He added: “Local companies know the terrain and the conditions and could offer potentially better services than other companies not familiar with the area. They would also be a short distance to the project should any issues arise.”
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