Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has called on councillors to give the green light to a major energy transition project in Aberdeenshire.
Kintore Hydrogen, a decision on which comes to Full Council next Thursday (24th) will create 3,000-plus jobs in construction and a further 300-plus when operational, generating £400million in GVA for the North-east economy.
The plant would use its strategic location to take abundant electricity from offshore wind to produce green hydrogen through a process of electrolysis.
Council officers have recommended that the project is approved, citing sustainable economic growth and the potential for Aberdeenshire to play a leading role in the development of clean, green energy.
Commenting, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce chief executive Russell Borthwick said: “Kintore Hydrogen is vital to North-east Scotland’s energy transition ambition – delivering an estimated £1billion boost to the economy, £400million of that in our region, supporting almost 3,500 jobs.
“The local workforce and supply chain stand to be the biggest winners from this major investment in our region as Aberdeenshire moves towards a clean energy future.
“That’s why it’s so important that the whole community – businesses, local residents and government at all levels – unites behind ensuring this vision becomes a reality.
“The opportunity for our region to play a leading role in the production of green hydrogen, as we move away from oil and gas, is one we cannot afford to let slip through our hands.”