A major seminar drawing together wind farm developers and other key stakeholders will take place in Edinburgh on Thursday 14th October.

The seminar, hosted by leading archaeological company, AOC Archaeology and award winning public affairs and public relations specialists, Indigo, is taking place at the Merchants’ Hall in Hanover Street and will explore the opportunities and look to address the challenges when it comes to delivering wind farm development.

The event will draw together over 70 of the UK’s leading developers, consultants and relevant agencies in the field and be hosted by journalist and energy economist, George Kerevan.

As Scotland looks to achieve 80% of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020, with a reduction in carbon emissions of 80% by 2050, wind energy is playing a prominent role in electricity generation and is integral to delivering Scotland's renewable energy targets.

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Scotland is the windiest country in Europe with around 25% of the continent's wind resource. By tapping into this potential in an environmentally acceptable manner, Scotland can make a substantial contribution to reducing dependence on imported fuels, helping to combat climate change and creating thousands of 'green collar' jobs.

There are therefore tremendous opportunities when it comes to wind farm development, but also considerable challenges presented by the likes of the planning system and local community objections.

Chaired by George Kerevan of The Scotsman, those attending will hear from a number of key names associated with wind farm development on how these challenges can be addressed. These include award-winning lawyer Colin Innes of Shepherd and Wedderburn, who will outline the current planning regime and developments in this area; Rosie Vetter, head of onshore wind at Scottish Renewables, who will outline the current state of, and recent developments in, the renewable energy sector; John Barber and Andy Heald of AOC Archaeology who will highlight the effect of heritage legislation on wind farm development; and Alex Orr of award-winning agency, Indigo, who will highlight good practice in community engagement and highlight the pitfalls developers should look out for when dealing with communities and other stakeholders during the planning process.

Commenting on the event, Andy Heald, Deputy Managing Director of AOC Archaeology said: “With the Scottish Government’s revised target of 80% of electricity to come from renewable energy sources by 2020 there has never been a better time to hold such an event. I am sure there will be a productive and lively discussion as we examine the challenges to delivering this ambitious target.”

(GK/KMcA)