A group established by the UK and Scottish governments is to appoint consultants to look at the renewable energy potential of the Western Isles.

The move will see a review and analysis of the economics and cost effectiveness to consumers across the UK of the deployment of renewables on the Scottish Islands.

The Intergovernmental Scottish Islands Renewables Steering Group was established last year and is chaired by the Department of Energy and Climate Change.

It has now appointed consultants who will launch a study on the commercial viability of renewable projects in the islands and their potential contribution to the economy, the barriers to their development and options for tackling the barriers.

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They will report back later this Spring.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: "We know that the islands are the jewel in Scotland’s renewable energy crown, and I am delighted at the work of the Intergovernmental Scottish Islands Renewables Steering Charging Group, which is an excellent example of governments and stakeholders working together to find a solution to the problem of transmission charges in the Western Isles.

"The planned appointment of consultants to look at the extent of the renewable energy potential we know is present in the Islands, the barriers in place and how we overcome them, is an important step forward."

Edward Davey, UK Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, said: "The Scottish Islands are blessed with tremendous tidal, wind and wave renewable resources and we should look to fully utilise this huge potential where we can. I am determined to work closely and constructively with the Scottish government and other key partners in this important area of work.

"The appointment of consultants will help drive forward work to look at the commercial viability of renewable projects on the Scottish Islands and the overall value for money these projects provide for the UK."

(IT)