Global Energy Group has signed a multi-million pound contract with Siemens to turn Nigg Energy park into a renewables energy hub.

With over £45 million invested to upgrade and install deep-water quayside facilities, the Port of Nigg will be used to help develop the £2.6 billion Beatrice Offshore Windfarm Ltd (BOWL) project.

The contract is set to begin in Spring 2018 and will see around 100 new jobs created.

Scottish Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse said: "Offshore renewables represent a huge opportunity for Scotland; an opportunity to build up new industries and to deliver on Scotland's ambitious renewable energy and carbon reduction targets for 2020 and beyond.

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"I am delighted that this multi-million pound contract between Global Energy Group and Siemens will enable Nigg Energy Park to develop into a genuine multi-energy site, securing around 100 direct and indirect jobs and associated supply chain opportunities.

"This contract arising from installation of the Beatrice Offshore Wind farm will provide a very welcome boost to the local economy in Ross-shire and the wider Highland Council area."

Global Chairman, Roy MacGregor, said: "We have been working hard and invested huge amounts of money in developing Nigg Energy Park as a multi energy site.

"Our hope is this new business relationship between us will lead to the support and development of other offshore wind farms, utilising Nigg's extensive tailor made facilities and supporting capability."

Ray Thompson, Head of Business Development at Siemens Wind Power UK, added: "Siemens is delighted to be able to sign this agreement today for the use of the Nigg facility. As the offshore wind industry faces continuing pressure to reduce costs to consumers, access to the right facilities is critical to the safe and efficient delivery of large projects, such as Beatrice."

(LM/CD)