Ariane Burgess, Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands & Islands region, has challenged the First Minister to respond to the looming cliff-edge faced by community-owned renewable energy projects.
This issue, if not addressed, could have catastrophic consequences for communities that rely on the income generated from these projects to fund vital infrastructure, including housing and childcare.
Meeting with the First Minister last week, Ms Burgess highlighted the significant role that community-owned renewable energy plays in supporting local development and sustainability.
She pointed out that many of these projects are nearing the end of their operational life and require repowering to continue providing sustainable income to their communities
“The repowering of community-owned renewable energy projects is not just a technical issue; it’s a matter of community survival and prosperity,” said Ariane Burgess.
“These projects are the lifeblood of many communities, providing the financial means to develop infrastructure and services that are crucial for local well-being.
“It’s also a potential opportunity to increase the amount of renewable energy owned by local communities but only if the Government and its agencies acts swiftly.”
In response to Ms Burgess’s intervention, the First Minister acknowledged the importance of the situation and has instructed officials to engage with communities to understand their needs and explore how the government can support the repowering process.
“The First Minister’s recognition of this issue is a positive step forward,” added Ariane Burgess.
“We need a collaborative approach to ensure that these community projects can continue to thrive and support local development.”
Community groups, like Cowal Community Energy, Community Energy Moray and Highland People’s Power, have highlighted challenges in securing leases and the need for government policies that favour community ownership and benefit.
Chris Ballance, Scottish Green councillor for Aird and Loch Ness said:
“There’s an urgent need for government policies to support community ownership.
“This is our land, our wind, our sea, and we need to own a share in profits being generated from it.
“The Highlands are being exploited by multinational companies now, so we need government policies that mandate community ownership now – not in three years’ time.
“That’s too late.”
Ms Burgess is committed to working with the government and community groups to develop solutions that will secure the future of community-owned renewable energy projects and the benefits they bring to local communities.
