A total of £20m a year will be ring-fenced for tidal stream projects. The CfD scheme is the government’s primary method of encouraging investment in low-carbon electricity.
Audrey MacIver, director of energy transition and net zero at Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), said:
“We are really pleased with this decision, which recognises the pivotal moment that Scotland’s marine energy sector has reached. It represents a step in the right direction towards tidal stream generation and we realise how critical this is in securing the UK’s lead.
“The Highlands and Islands, with its wave and tidal resources, testing infrastructure and supply chain expertise, is perfectly placed to capitalise on clean marine energy. We give credit to the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) and the tidal industry’s tenacity and perseverance in the region and the commitment they have shown in using local supply chains.
“Support for the sector is essential to achieving both economic recovery in our rural and coastal communities and the Scottish and UK governments’ net-zero ambitions.
“This investment announcement gives a huge boost to the sector, paving the way towards full commercialisation of tidal technology, in turn creating green jobs and strengthening energy security by adding to our diverse renewable energy supply.
The UK Government press release is at https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-government-announces-biggest-investment-into-britains-tidal-power
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