Business leaders have warned that Scotland's £96 billion ScotWind opportunity could be put at risk by a new UK energy blueprint, amid concerns some offshore wind projects may not be prioritised for future grid investment.
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is due to present six options for its Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP) to the UK Government later this summer.
Industry sources fear only two of the proposed pathways fully support Scotland's offshore wind pipeline, raising concerns over investor confidence, particularly for floating offshore wind projects.
Colin Marr, Chief Executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, said: 'Scotwind is one of the biggest industrial opportunities Scotland has had in decades, with the potential to support major investment, contracts and jobs across the north of Scotland.
'But leases alone do not build projects. Offshore wind needs grid connections, port capacity, vessels, manufacturing capability and a market framework that gives companies the confidence to invest.
'Businesses across the Highlands and Islands are ready to play their part, but they need confidence that Scotland’s offshore wind pipeline has a clear route to delivery.
'If the UK is serious about clean power, energy security and building domestic supply chains, the full ScotWind pipeline needs to be backed by the grid, market framework and investment signals needed to turn ambition into real work.'
Maggie McGinlay, Chief Executive of Energy Transition Zone Ltd, added: 'Projects need grid connections, port capacity, manufacturing capability and a route to market that gives companies the confidence to invest.
'A decision driven too narrowly by modelled system cost would risk missing the bigger prize for the UK: clean power, domestic supply chains, energy security and a credible future for North Sea workers and communities.'
A NESO spokesman said: 'The strategic spatial energy plan is Great Britain’s first national blueprint for where future electricity and hydrogen infrastructure may be needed.
'Commissioned by the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments, it brings together economic, technical, environmental and societal evidence to identify secure, affordable and sustainable pathways for meeting future demand.
'By providing clearer long-term direction, the SSEP will help unlock investment, strengthen supply chains, and support jobs and skills.
'Neso will submit six future energy system options to government later this summer. The UK energy secretary will then select one pathway to take forward.'
Source: Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
