Uncertainty over the economy has done nothing to dent Fife’s confidence when it comes to seizing opportunities thrown up by the renewable energy sector.
That is the message from Fife Council and its partners as the region sets its sights firmly on creating at least 2000 new jobs in the industry by 2020.
Competition is expected to be fierce in the sector over the coming years as various areas of the UK aim to position themselves at the forefront of developments, with the British Wind Energy Association suggesting that as many as 20,000 new posts could ultimately be created by offshore wind farms alone in the next decade.
With that in mind, Fife has pledged to do all it can to ensure it is the location of choice for renewables-related companies looking to create jobs and invest in the region in the coming years.
While the effect of forthcoming austerity plans on these companies remains to be seen, Councillor Tony Martin, chairman of Fife Council’s environment, enterprise and transportation committee, is optimistic about the role Fife has to play in the industry and the impact the sector will have on employment in the area.
Indeed, many developments are already well on their way, perhaps justifying the early investment in renewable energy projects seen in Fife long before many other authorities realised the potential out there.
“We are confident that the renewable energy sector in Fife will become one of the most important employers in the local area over the coming years,” said Mr Martin.
“As part of our renewable energy strategy work, we have highlighted a target of 2000 jobs in the renewable energy sector by 2020, and we are well on the way to achieving this target.
“Biomass renewable energy schemes are currently being constructed in Fife with a value of almost half a billion pounds at Markinch, Cameron Bridge, and Longannet and the offshore wind sector employs over 500, principally at BiFab in Fife Energy Park at Methil.”
Fears over potential job creation figures being bandied around have been growing in recent months, particularly after news that a consortium led by Scottish and Southern Electricity (SSE) ditched its plans for a 140-turbine site off the coast of Angus.
Interference with radar signals was blamed, while it was then announced last month that a second wind farm, at Inch Cape, is under threat.
Nevertheless, Mr Martin said, “Although the cancellation of the Bell Rock wind farm is disappointing, this is because of technical issues relating to radar rather than a fundamental challenge to the economics of offshore wind.
“I believe that the future for Fife’s economy is green and I’m looking forward to the Kingdom leading the way in the renewable energy sector.”
The Courier will be publishing a series of articles exploring the possibilities presented by renewable energy. As always, we welcome your opinions. Please comment below, email letters@thecourier.co.uk or write to The Courier, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee. DD4 8SL.