A major new base to support offshore wind development puts Aberdeen at the forefront of the push from oil and gas to a renewable energy future, Nicola Sturgeon said.
The first minister was in the city on Monday where she revealed the offshore wind hub will be part of the Scottish Government’s £26 million “energy transition zone”.
The new £9 million National Floating Wind Innovation Centre will be housed in the Altens Industrial Estate’s hub.
Ms Sturgeon claimed the new wind centre marked a “major step” in Scotland’s move towards renewables.
It’s hoped the base will play a role in helping to develop more wind farms across Britain while allowing experts and businesses to keep costs down.
The Scottish Government has previously said that their energy transition zone will create over 2,000 green jobs by 2030.
Last month Nicola Sturgeon defended the SNP’s £700 million ScotWind deal despite concerns from rivals that it would benefit private firms.
Speaking in Aberdeen, the first minister said: “The energy transition zone, backed by £26 million Scottish Government funding, will contribute to the north east being ideally placed to make the most of the anticipated increase in demand for offshore wind as we transition to net zero.
“The new National Floating Wind Innovation Centre is a world first, and it marks a major step in our collective efforts to capitalise on the huge opportunity that floating offshore wind presents.
“Ensuring our transition to net zero is fair, just, and delivers sustainable jobs and growth is at the heart of our national strategy for economic transformation.
Businessman Sir Ian Wood, who is the energy transition zone’s chairman, said: “The north east of Scotland is one of the most attractive locations for investment in low carbon and net zero technologies
“It’s great to see the Scottish Government’s recognition of the sheer scale of the opportunity before us.
“ORE Catapult‘s decision to create the National Floating Wind Innovation Centre in Aberdeen is so important and a critical part of ETZ Ltd’s plans.”
