A recent survey has revealed that only 14% of business leaders in the Grampian region feel very positive about the recent decision to locate GB Energy’s headquarters in Aberdeen – the lowest of the regions in Scotland.
The survey, conducted for international law firm Womble Bond Dickinson reveals that 44% of business leaders in the region are concerned about potential job losses in traditional fossil fuel industries, as Scotland shifts towards greener energy sources.
This scepticism is deeply rooted in the area's long-standing history with the oil and gas sector, reiterating the urgent need for retraining and upskilling the existing workforce. The findings highlight the critical importance of preparing workers for a sustainable future, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in Scotland's evolving energy landscape.
Other concerns were also raised, with a quarter (25%) of respondents flagging a potential lack of funding as a key concern. The need for financial support to ensure the success of GB Energy’s operations and the wider renewable energy transition remains a priority for those working in the region.
Encouragingly, 67% of leaders in the region share a positive outlook on the economic benefits of GB Energy’s presence, underscoring a significant confidence in Scotland’s renewable energy future.
Nearly half of respondents (47%) also believe that local businesses and suppliers in Aberdeenshire will benefit, whilst more than a third (36%) are confident that the presence of GB Energy will lead to job creation in the renewable energy sector for the area.
Richard Cockburn, head of energy at Womble Bond Dickinson, said: “GB Energy’s decision to establish its headquarters in Scotland is an important milestone for the renewable energy sector and the Scottish economy.
"Although business leaders in the Grampian region may not share the same level of positivity as elsewhere in the country, they have still shown optimism around the positive economic impacts and opportunities that may lie ahead.
"As they continue to transition away from the oil and gas industry, towards cleaner, greener forms of energy, it's vital that the existing workforce is taken on the journey and provided with the opportunity to upskill and retrain. In doing so, Scotland can ensure it does not lose out on the significant level of experience and knowledge that already exists."