The Scottish Government hosted a major investment event yesterday aimed at unlocking new private investment in the country’s rapidly growing offshore wind industry.
More than 100 stakeholders, including investors and developers, attended the Global Offshore Wind Investment Forum, hosted by First Minister John Swinney.
The Forum took place following a Green Industrial Strategy commitment to raise the profile of Scotland as a destination for capital investment. The strategy identified offshore wind as one of five priority areas for Scottish Government resources and investment.
The Scottish Government is investing up to £500million over five years in the Scottish offshore wind supply chain to leverage an expected £1.5billion of private investment.
Speaking ahead of the Forum, the First Minister said: “The growth and success of Scotland’s offshore wind industry is not only an ambition of my Government, it is a priority for me personally. Delivering on its promise will not only deliver our global climate obligations, but create significant new jobs and economic opportunities.
“History has shown that success stems from choosing the right time and place to capitalise on the next innovation of the era. We have already gained a significant first-mover advantage and laid the groundwork for success.
“Now we are poised to move to the next stage of development and growth and reap the rewards of what we estimate could be a £100billion market.
“The Global Offshore Wind investment Forum is about 'Team Scotland' showcasing the offer that Scotland’s offshore wind sector offers to global investors. We have a compelling story and a clear message that Scotland is open for business.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin also took part in the Forum, which was delivered by Scottish Enterprise. Highlands and Islands Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise and Scottish National Investment Bank also took part , and the UK Government was represented.