The launch a new £2million recycling plant for lithium-ion batteries in Golspie, Sutherland is expected to create 30 high quality jobs in the area.

AEA Technology (AEAT) is the company behind the project and will develop world-leading technology for the recycling of lithium-ion batteries. It will be operational by the end of 2004

Making the announcement Deputy Enterprise Minister, Lewis Macdonald said the move would highlight the potential of ‘green jobs’ across the Highlands and Islands. The Deputy Enterprise Minister announced the Executive’s investment in the establishment of the facility at the convention of the Highlands and Islands.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise, with the backing of the Executive, will provide funding of £1,062,632 to support the scheme.

Lewis Macdonald said:

"Our top priority is growing the economy, and working in partnership with companies such as AEAT will help us achieve this.

"The facility will help develop advanced technology which will set new world standards, and help create more jobs in the area in the long-term."

The Thurso-based business will be able to develop a range of new products. AEAT are also establishing a new Research Development Centre in the area for its Battery Systems business.

Andrew McCree, Group Managing Director of AEAT, said:

"It will be the only one of its type in Europe and we believe it will attract considerable interest as new environmental regulations take place."

"Using the expertise and technical know-how of our people and the experience we have gained in developing the next generation of lithium-ion batteries, this will help position Scotland at the forefront of battery recycling."

The chief executive of Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise, Carroll Buxton, said:

"The recycling facility will build on the existing battery-related business in Caithness and also provide an environmentally sound disposal route for batteries from all over Europe."

Environmental regulations which will be introduced in 2005 will mean that battery manufacturers and equipment suppliers will be increasingly responsible for the recycling of their batteries. Currently, lithium-ion batteries are shipped to France where they are incinerated and material recovery is limited.