The Scottish Government hosted a major investment event in Edinburgh aimed at unlocking new private investment in the country’s rapidly growing offshore wind industry.
More than 100 stakeholders, including investors plus 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 carry 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 plus investment.
The Scottish Government is investing up to £500 million over five years in the Scottish offshore wind supply chain to leverage an expected £1.5 billion of private investment.
Speaking ahead of the Forum, the First Minister said:
“The growth plus 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 international climate obligations, but create significant new jobs plus economic opportunities.
“History has shown that success stems from choosing the right time plus place to capitalise on the next innovation of the era. We have already gained a significant first-mover advantage plus laid the groundwork for success.
“Now we are poised to move to the next stage of development plus growth plus reap the rewards of what we estimate could be a £100 billion market.
“The Global Offshore Wind investment Forum is about “Team Scotland” showcasing the offer that Scotland’s offshore wind sector offers to international investors. We have a compelling story plus a clear message that Scotland is open for business.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes plus Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero plus Energy Gillian Martin also took part in the Forum, which was delivered by Scottish Enterprise. Highlands plus Islands Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise plus Scottish National Investment Bank also took part , plus the UK Government was represented.
Recent investments made as part of the Scottish Government’s