In letters to the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Energy Secretary, Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group (AREG) has invited Miatta Fahnbulleh to meet the companies in the North-east of Scotland that are contributing to maintaining security of energy supply across the UK, and leading the technological innovation in clean, renewable power.
Congratulating the Secretary of State on her appointment, AREG said the UK faces a pivotal moment in delivering energy security, economic growth and net-zero ambitions, and called for close collaboration between industry and government to achieve a managed and successful energy transition.
AREG Chair Jean Morrison said: “Our vision is to establish the North-east of Scotland as a centre of excellence for the UK energy transition. AREG has been working for over 20 years on behalf of its members in the energy supply chain to champion the renewable energy sector, and their expertise. We support members to access opportunities that will accelerate the development and deployment of renewable energy.”
“AREG believes a balanced approach is needed to deliver long-term energy security and economic prosperity. The UK’s established oil and gas industry continues to play a vital role in supporting the growth of renewables through transferable skills, innovation, engineering expertise and decades of experience operating in challenging environments.”
In its message to the Energy Secretary, AREG highlighted the urgent need for policy measures that will unlock investment, accelerate planning and consenting processes, protect jobs and provide long-term certainty for businesses looking to scale up clean energy projects.
Liz Paddon, AREG Operations and Development Manager
Liz Paddon, AREG Operations and Development Manager, added: “We believe that clear, consistent policy signals will help safeguard thousands of high-value jobs, attract private sector investment and enable the delivery of secure, affordable and clean energy for households and businesses across the country.
“The North-east is ready to deliver. It has the skills, infrastructure, technology, innovation capability and international reputation to anchor Scotland’s future energy economy and secure a successful transition.”
Founded in Aberdeen in 2003, AREG is the UK’s original energy transition organisation and operates at the intersection of energy transition, technology and policy in the Northeast of Scotland. It works in close partnership with industry bodies, public sector partners and academia, and represents more than 260 member companies. These span a broad range of energy technologies and industries, including offshore and onshore wind, hydrogen, solar power, carbon capture, geothermal energy and other low-carbon technologies.