ENERGY AND JOBS BOOST FROM BILBAO

For immediate use: Monday 13th September 2010


Attn: NEWSDESKS
POLITICS/ ENERGY / ECONOMY CORRESPONDENTS


A huge boost to Scotland’s renewable energy industry and future employment
has been announced by the First Minister and companies Iberdrola and
Gamesa in Bilbao.


Welcoming the £3 billion commitment from Iberdrola and manufacturer
Gamesa’s interest in Scotland as a location for the renewable industry SNP
MSP and Deputy Convener of the Parliament’s Economy and Energy committee
Rob Gibson said:


“This multi-billion boost is brilliant news for Scotland.


“£3 billion of investment across Scottish industry and scottish services
will see a real step change in the development of renewable energy.


“Alongside initiatives like the Saltire prize which are bringing our
offshore potential to life this kind of commitment shows the rest of the
world looking to Scotland as a key driver of the renewable energy
industry.


“Gamesa’s interest also brings the prospect for further manufacturing
development to add to the capacity already installed at places like
Campbeltown, Arnish and BiFab in Fife and to the potential of sites such
as Nigg and Dundee.


“Coming on the day the Economy Committee called for Scotland to pursue
inward investment opportunities these announcements show that the SNP
Government is focussed on increasing investment, creating jobs and
capitalising on our vast renewable energy potential.


“With moves to ensure communities and the nation as a whole also benefit
from Scotland’s second energy boom this is welcome announcement from the
First Minister and demonstrates the value international connections can
bring to Scotland.”




ENDS