Learn about how the energy industry operates in our region
Energy in our region
Energy
The Highlands and Islands is at the forefront of Europe's energy industry.
Our energy industry
The region's strong legacy in the oil and gas industry, and abundance of renewable energy resources, mean it is ideally placed to be at the forefront of the energy industry.
Here you can find out about ground-breaking work many local companies are involved in, from research and development to full-scale test facilities. It's also where you'll find the latest news and analysis from the energy sector plus full coverage of the markets we work in.
Our focus
The energy and low carbon sectors in Scotland support hundreds of thousands of jobs and generated £45.7bn in turnover for Scotland in 2015. For the Highlands and Islands, the transition to a carbon neutral economy represents a very significant economic, social and industrial opportunity. Our oil and gas industry will continue to play a key role in supplying energy, but will also provide the skills and expertise to support our transition to a highly productive, carbon neutral future. Low carbon and renewable energy are both fast-growing areas of opportunity and significant contributors to Scotland’s economy. A sustainable and successful energy sector in the Highlands and Islands will underpin wider regional economic growth.
We at HIE will remain strong advocates for the industry as it continues to thrive; supporting our supply chain to innovate and internationalise and our communities to transition to a strong and sustainable low carbon economy.Audrey MacIver, director of energy and low carbon, HIE
Energy stats
1,000
of jobs supported in this sector
45.7
turnover for Scotland in 2015
588
of electricity produced by Beatrice Offshore Windfarm
40
of oil and gas activity in the Highlands and Islands
Marine Energy
The UK marine energy industry is already making a positive impact in every part of the UK. It has now been several years since the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) was established in Orkney and in that period the UK has become a global centre of excellence in marine energy.
Read more about the successes in our region in the document below.
Marine Energy - key steps to maintaining a Great British success story
Wave Energy Scotland
Learn about the Wave Energy Scotland initiative, which is fully funded by the Scottish Government, to accelerate the development of wave energy technology.
Visit the Wave Energy Scotland website
Support
We can help you to find opportunities, and sources of funding, in order to allow your business to grow and develop.
If you are an account managed business, contact your account manager to find out more about our range of services. If you are not currently account managed but are interested in working with us, contact your local area office.
Community energy
We've been supporting communities with local energy developments since 2002. We have a range of support available, either directly from us or through our partners.
Where to now?
Find out more about the energy sector in the Highlands and Islands by clicking below
