Renew On Line (UK) 39

Extracts from the Sept-Oct 2002 edition of Renew
These extracts only represent about 25% of it

1. £2.3m more for Wave Energy

The DTI has announced Government funding of up to £2.3 million to support the development and demonstration by Wavegen of three new wave energy devices off the Western Isles. The devices, located in shallow waters, will be based on an extension of the oscillating water column principle already demonstrated in Wavegens shore mounted LIMPET on Islay. The funding will come from the £100m allocated last year by the Prime Minister for renewable energy development. Speaking in Stornoway, Energy Minister Brian Wilson said: ‘I am a strong supporter of wave energy and am determined to ensure that the UK remains the world leader as the technology takes off’.

He said he was hopeful that Wavegen will choose to manufacture the devices at Arnish on Lewis, leading to an early re-opening of the yard. ‘Arnish is an ideal facility for renewables-related manufacturing and I am confident that it will soon be playing a major role in supporting the huge expansion of renewable energy, both wind and wave, in Scotland and beyond.’

He added later that it was "essential" that communities should see direct, tangible benefits from renewable developments in return for accepting and promoting them.

‘Developers will have noted the strong public support for renewables projects in crofting areas. This is clearly related to the perceived benefits in terms of both jobs and royalties. It is a message which should not be lost on the industry, or indeed on landowners elsewhere in the country. If they want support for their projects, they should offer something in return. Better still, of course, there are community-owned estates in the Highlands and Islands which are in a position to negotiate on their own behalf.’