One of Europe’s largest offshore wind energy companies is to locate its UK turbine-manufacturing site at Scotland.

French energy company Areva has signed an agreement with Scottish Enterprise, indicating its intention to relocate its turbine operation and blade-manufacturing facilities.

The move was announced today as Alex Salmond was visiting Paris.

The First Minister said: "Scotland shares Areva's vision of a cleaner tomorrow. Today's announcement provides a further boost to Scotland's position as one of Europe's key locations for offshore wind and takes us another significant step further in achieving our ambitious carbon reduction target.

"The manufacturing of nacelles and blades for these turbines in Scotland will deliver nationwide economic benefits as well as much welcome inward investment to the chosen location once that has been agreed.

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"This is another powerful example of how attractive Scotland is for international investors - and is indicative of our shared energy future."

Scotland's renewables industry has seen £2.8bn capital investment since 2009.

Luc Oursel, CEO of Areva, added: "Areva's industrial heritage and diverse portfolio has placed us firmly at the forefront of low carbon technological solutions. Scotland is known to be a pioneer in renewables and its commitment to offshore wind in particular was a key part of our decision to locate our future UK manufacturing base there.

"This new facility is part of Areva's strategy to establish a manufacturing footprint that will cover the European market."

Scottish Enterprise chief executive Lena Wilson signed the agreement with Areva CEO Luc Oursel.

She said: "This announcement further demonstrates Scotland's position as a leading contributor to the low carbon agenda and ambition to deliver safe and sustainable energy through advanced technology.

"Offshore wind is a key driver of the economic benefit of renewables and we will continue to work closely with Areva to support its development plans in Scotland and create ongoing opportunities for wider industry growth."

(IT)