June 2011
Following the record-breaking All-Energy 2011, do you think the age of renewables has finally arrived?
Bill Murray, Chief Executive, Offshore Contractors’ Association
The renewables industry is certainly here, it’s beyond infancy, it’s growing and even starting to show signs of maturity, with a fairly substantial supply chain starting to form.
The growth in onshore wind is well established but is now facing constraints, from planning and various other challenges, and the next natural move is to offshore wind. However it’s going to have to compete for resources against the established energy industries which have already got the advantage of scale and cost.
There are also technology questions to be answered – the technology for offshore wind has not yet been proven on the scale that is required and there’s still some doubt as to what is going to be the winning technology for wave and tidal energy etc.
Renewable energy has definitely taken its first faltering steps but is not ready to stand on its own feet yet
Jamie Ritchie, Head of Green Energy, Johnston Carmichael
Green energy is clearly a key growth sector for the Scottish economy and here at Johnston Carmichael we have seen a significant increase in recent years in the number of projects being undertaken.
One of the key issues facing green energy projects is funding and as green technology develops, we are continuing to build on our knowledge and expertise in the energy sector and are committed to delivering an integrated solution to meet the needs of those operating within the renewable sector.
We certainly believe that the opportunity for renewables has arrived – and is here to stay – and as a company we will continue to invest in this key sector for the Scottish economy and to play our small part in making sure that Scotland takes full advantage of its significant natural resources and becomes a world leader and recognised world centre of excellence.
Rajini Sokhi, Renewables Manager, Active Sustainable Energy Systems
Having worked in the renewables industry for several years now, I can honestly say that there is a quiet revolution currently occurring. With the help and encouragement of the Scottish government and shows such as All Energy the industry is becoming much more vocal, and is increasingly being listened to.
The renewables industry in Scotland has been progressing slowly for some years but more recently I have seen a definite increase in not only interest, but in recognition of the importance of both domestic and commercial renewables.
This is very encouraging for the future of renewables in Scotland. I hope that this positive surge in the uptake and development of renewable energy technologies, and recognition of their benefits, is being mirrored across the globe. Having witnessed recent advancements throughout the industry I have no reason to doubt that this is the case.
John Halliday, Chief Executive, Halliday Fraser Munro
Renewable energy may be on its way but it’s not here yet. Last month business leaders explored future clean energy sources at All Energy but the North-east community should remember the importance of efficient and responsible energy use in design, architecture, building and living. We recently celebrated a prestigious Homes for Scotland Quality Award in the category of sustainable design. The development, based in Fraserburgh, complies with the Sustainable Design Guidance through the houses’ energy efficiency, considered building materials, minimised air and pollution issues and address of the ecological value of the site. Conserving energy is just as important as creating it.
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