A historic agreement to launch the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport (ICFGF) has been signed, marking the final step in a five-year effort to position the Highlands as a global hub for renewable energy.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the UK and Scottish governments, Highland Council, and ICFGF.
It unlocks £25 million in UK Government funding to drive infrastructure projects across the Freeport’s three designated tax sites.
The signing took place at Aurora Energy Services’ newly opened £1.2 million training centre in Inverness, attended by Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, and Highland Council Leader Raymond Bremner.
“This is truly a historic moment for the Green Freeport,” said ICFGF Chief Executive Calum MacPherson.
“We’re proving that the Highlands can compete and win on the international stage.”
ICFGF is expected to deliver over 11,000 long-term, well-paid jobs and attract more than £6.5 billion in investment over the next 25 years.
It forms a key part of the UK’s clean energy future and is designed to regenerate the Highland economy through offshore wind, green hydrogen, and advanced manufacturing.
“The Green Freeport will transform the economy of the Highlands,” said Douglas Alexander.
“This is a pivotal moment in the UK Government’s mission to boost growth across all parts of the UK.”
The Freeport has already drawn significant investment.
Japanese firm Sumitomo Electric is building a £350 million subsea cable factory at Port of Nigg, creating over 150 skilled local jobs.
Meanwhile, the Ardersier Energy Transition Facility has secured £100 million in funding and awarded contracts to more than 110 local businesses.
Aurora’s training centre, located within one of ICFGF’s designated tax sites, will train over 2,000 workers annually to meet the rising demand for skilled labour in renewables.
“With its focus on the renewable and low-carbon energy industries, this Freeport aligns with Scotland’s Fair Work First policy,” said Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes.
“It’s opening the door to innovation, regeneration, and opportunity.”
Raymond Bremner, Leader of The Highland Council, called it a “landmark moment,” adding:
“Our vision is bold, but it’s also about our people.
“This is about ensuring benefits reach communities from Wick to Inverness.”
The Freeport offers tax incentives to businesses operating in Cromarty Firth, Ardersier, and Inverness, while placing clear requirements on fair working conditions and environmental responsibility.
With the final milestone completed, the Green Freeport has officially moved from planning to delivery, bringing a bold new chapter for Highland prosperity into focus.
