Highlands freeport drives offshore wind growth

A memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed by the UK and Scottish governments, Highland Council and ICFGF, marks the final stage of a five-year process to establish the Highlands as a global hub for marine renewables and clean energy investment.

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: “This is a pivotal moment in the UK Government’s mission to boost economic growth in all parts of the UK.”

“The Inverness and Cromarty Green Freeport will transform the economy of the Highlands, as well as playing a key role in our clean energy future.”

Crucial role

The MoU unlocks UK Government funding for major port investment across partner sites, strengthening facilities at Port of Nigg, Port of Cromarty Firth, Highland Deephaven, Ardersier and Inverness.

These developments will play a crucial role in meeting the UK’s offshore wind and renewable energy ambitions.

ICFGF is expected to deliver over 11,000 long-term jobs and attract more than GB£6.5bn in inward investment, building a future-ready workforce and anchoring the Highlands within the international clean energy supply chain.

Early successes include securing Sumitomo Electric’s GB£350m subsea cable plant at Nigg and supporting the GB£100m Ardersier Energy Transition Facility, both vital to scaling floating offshore wind.

In addition to its focus on the renewable and low-carbon energy industries, Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport aims to bring up to 11,300 jobs to the Highlands aligning with the Scottish Government’s flagship Fair Work First policy.