Scotland possesses the ideal economic and geographical advantages to emerge as a world leader in renewable energy. Discover how independent analysis identifies Scotland, particularly the North East, as a prime location for developing green industrial clusters related to renewable energy generation, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage (CCS).
Explore the potential for high-quality job creation and economic growth while transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Scotland has been identified as having immense potential to establish itself as a global leader in renewable energy due to its favorable economic and geographical conditions, according to recent analysis conducted by independent think tank Green Alliance.
The research focused on mapping potential green industrial clusters to maximize benefits, and Scotland emerged as a strong contender for the development of such initiatives.
the Aberdeen Offshore Wind farm, which secured £9.3 million in 2022 from the Department of Energy, Business, and Industrial Strategy
The North East region of Scotland, in particular, has been recognized for its enormous potential in fostering industrial clusters dedicated to renewable energy generation, hydrogen production, and carbon capture and storage (CCS).
A research paper titled “The Cluster Effect: Why the UK Needs a Place-based Green Industrial Strategy” elaborates on the findings
Green Alliance believes that implementing a place-based green industrial strategy could facilitate the region’s transition away from fossil fuel production by supporting the growth of these green industries. Such a transition would not only create well-paid, high-quality jobs but also help sustain the region’s robust economic standing.
A research paper titled “The Cluster Effect: Why the UK Needs a Place-based Green Industrial Strategy” elaborates on the findings, highlighting the strategic advantages and sectoral specializations that make North East Scotland well-positioned to benefit from the transition to net-zero emissions. Notably, the region excels in renewable electricity generation and hydrogen and CCS technologies.
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North East Scotland’s proximity to existing and potential sites for fixed and floating offshore wind power generation is a significant advantage. For instance, the Aberdeen Offshore Wind farm, which secured £9.3 million in 2022 from the Department of Energy, Business, and Industrial Strategy for the development of the world’s first hydrogen-producing offshore wind turbine, demonstrates the region’s commitment to innovation.
Additionally, the region offers potential sites for the integration, assembly, and manufacturing of Flow turbines—a promising aspect of the transition.
West Central Scotland is another area that stands to benefit from the shift away from fossil fuels. With a service-based economy, the region boasts strengths in financial and insurance services, non-manufacturing sectors, and notable fields such as construction, research universities, life sciences, and technology.
Moreover, Glasgow City Region’s central location within Scotland, coupled with robust transport links, positions it to export services related to goods from other regions, including agricultural products and renewable energy.
These research findings arrive at a time when the two major political parties in the UK—the Conservatives and Labour—are emphasizing economic growth as a crucial aspect of their agendas leading up to the next general election.
While Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s announcement to halt further oil and gas exploration drew criticism, Green Alliance supports this approach, asserting the existence of both environmental and economic justifications for such a decision.
These research findings arrive at a time when the two major political parties in the UK—the Conservatives and Labour
Head of Economy at Green Alliance, Steve Coulter, believes that Keir Starmer’s judgment in prioritizing investment in the clean, green economy will resonate with voters in 2024, as it already garners significant public support.
Coulter emphasizes the compelling economic case for targeted industrial strategies, citing the extensive potential Scotland holds for renewable energy. Embracing this opportunity would position the UK at the forefront of the global race for green industries and jobs, which has seen a surge in momentum due to substantial investment plans in the United States and Europe.
By capitalizing on its inherent advantages and embracing renewable energy, Scotland can play a pivotal role in spearheading the worldwide transition toward sustainable and green technologies. With its commitment to green industrial clusters, Scotland has the potential to become a trailblazer, fostering economic growth, job creation, and environmental steward.
