Rhoda Grant MSP has today written to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband and Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, urging them to give serious consideration for GB Energy to be based in the Highlands and Islands (including Moray).
In her letter, sent today, she outlines that GB Energy is going to change the energy sector as we know it and cut bills for good for working people.
She then goes onto pitch that the Highlands and Islands is a centre of excellence for clean, sustainable, renewable energy and basing GB Energy in the Highlands and Islands “sends a clear message on the future of sustainably sourced, renewable energy”.
She also outlined that “It would also right a wrong that has existed for generations”.
As the average three bedroomed property in the Highlands and Islands can be 25% more expensive to heat than the average Scottish home of the same size.
Mrs Grant states that this issue was ignored by the previous Conservative Government and not prioritised by the SNP representatives in Westminster.
She then states basing GB Energy in the Highlands and Islands “would lead to greater understanding of this challenge”.
Basing GB energy in the Highlands and Islands would also slow down depopulation trends as it would provide local jobs and encourage inward migration to the area.
Additionally, as the Highlands and Islands provide ideal condition for clean renewable energy, any other location would be geographically distant from the source of that clean energy.
She then concludes by inviting them both to the area to hear and meet from: “business leaders, local politicians and others to show you why the Highlands and Islands is a suitable, sensible and successful location for GB Energy.”
Speaking after sending the letter by email Rhoda Grant MSP said:
“The Highlands and Islands is an obvious contender for GB Energy.
“With our success in clean renewable energy, including the Inverness and Cromarty freeport, our energy rich islands, planned infrastructure plus our need to encourage young people to stay, and move here, I would be delighted if it were chosen by our Labour Westminster Government.
“Of course, we have stiff competition with Aberdeen which is to be expected.
“However, the Highlands and Islands is a centre of excellence for renewable energy as we transition to cleaner and renewable energy.
“Any other location would be geographically distant from the source of energy and this Labour Government have been clear that transitioning to Net Zero is a high priority.
“I hope my letter aids the effort to base GB Energy in the Highlands and Islands and I look forward to hearing further developments.”
