A significant 64% of companies within Scotland's renewable energy supply chain are actively investing in skills, capabilities, and facilities to capitalise on the nation's burgeoning clean energy market over the next three to five years, a survey by Scottish Renewables has revealed.

The findings were published today alongside the launch of the sixth edition of Scottish Renewables' Supply Chain Impact Statement, an annual report highlighting the diverse businesses driving Scotland's renewable energy sector. The survey, which gathered responses from over 370 members of the trade body, underscores the industry's commitment to future growth.

However, the survey also highlighted concerns within the sector, with 60% of respondents believing that both the UK and Scottish governments are not establishing the necessary market conditions for Scottish businesses to effectively compete for and secure renewable energy contracts.

The Supply Chain Impact Statement features 39 organisations, collectively representing more than 9,700 jobs across Scotland. These businesses span various sectors, including heat pump suppliers, training providers, mooring specialists, and construction firms, all tapping into the increasing opportunities presented by renewable energy.

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Examples of companies featured in the report include Montrose Port Authority, which operates Scotland's first large-scale shore power facility, Plug Montrose, supplying 100% renewable electricity to offshore vessels. 1StopWind is highlighted for its blade repair, maintenance, and recycling services, contributing to the wind sector's circular economy. Emtec Energy is recognised for providing solar and battery storage solutions across the UK, while Pier Solutions has expanded its capabilities to support technologies such as battery energy storage systems and hydrogen. Quoceant is developing innovative marine quick connectors for floating offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy technologies, and Vital Energi continues to expand its Scottish operations in low-carbon heat solutions.

Emma Harrick, Director of Energy Transition and Supply Chain at Scottish Renewables, commented on the findings: "This year's edition of the Supply Chain Impact Statement represents more than 9,700 jobs and offers a clear view of how project developers are actively collaborating with and investing in local supply chain partners, from cutting-edge start-ups and SMEs to well-established firms."

She added: "It's promising to see that nearly two-thirds of supply chain businesses are preparing to invest in strengthening their clean energy capabilities over the next five years and it's clear that our renewable energy industry isn't just growing - it's becoming the engine of Scotland's future economy, with businesses recognising it as the country's biggest economic opportunity."

However, Harrick also stressed the concern over market conditions: "It is concerning that 60% of the supply chain feel the UK and Scottish governments aren't creating the market conditions that will allow them to effectively compete and win renewable energy contracts. If we want to unlock the full potential of this industry, that gap must be addressed."

She concluded: "And if we're serious about delivering on our clean power potential and building a world-leading green economy, we need to think bigger than we ever have before. This means urgently delivering an economic environment that maximises the entrepreneurial spirit of our clean power supply chain."

The Scottish Renewables Supply Chain Impact Statement is supported by sponsors ORE Catapult, EDF Renewables, Fred. Olsen Renewables, Ocean Winds, Scottish Enterprise, and document partner, the Clean Energy Cluster.