A new Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan, outlining 21 key actions to attract investment, generate new employment, and position the area as a global leader in green energy and sustainable manufacturing, has been published.

This comprehensive plan, the first of its kind in Scotland, has been developed collaboratively by the Grangemouth Future Industry Board. This board comprises industry leaders, representatives of the Grangemouth workforce, local community members, Falkirk Council, and both the Scottish and UK Governments.

Key actions within the plan include:

• Delivering the £25 million Grangemouth Just Transition Fund: This fund will provide direct support for businesses currently operating within the industrial cluster and work to establish and attract new investment into the area.

• Creating an industrial skills offer: This initiative aims to ensure both the current and future workforces possess the necessary training and experience to support the evolving industry in the region.

• Developing an industry-led technical and commercial investment strategy: This strategy will include a decarbonisation pathway to secure investment for scaling up green energy initiatives.

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• Establishing a Grangemouth Regulatory Hub: This hub will focus on developing innovative approaches to help industry operate sustainably and efficiently.

Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin highlighted Grangemouth's historical importance and its future role: "As Scotland’s leading industrial cluster, Grangemouth has long played a vital role to our economy and bringing energy security to the country and it is only right that the area continues to help lead the way in our journey to clean, green energy."

Acknowledging the uncertainty caused by the announced cessation of refining at Grangemouth, Ms Martin added: "It is vital that we do what we can as a government to support and promote local opportunities and growth in the area. The Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan will act as the framework for all activity that supports Grangemouth’s transition. It has been developed with industry, the community, public sector partners, Unite the Union and the workforce to ensure it reflects the interests of the community and businesses in the area."

The plan is further bolstered by ongoing support for Project Willow, the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, and a targeted skills intervention specifically for former Petroineos workers. Ms Martin also called upon the UK Government to implement policy changes that would enable the deployment of future commodities like Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production in Scotland.

Kenny MacInnes, Principal of Forth Valley College, underscored the college's pivotal role in the transition: "Grangemouth plays a vital role in Scotland’s economy and is central to our journey to net zero. With our campus situated at the heart of this transition, Forth Valley College is uniquely positioned to support the businesses, workers, and communities navigating the changes ahead."

He highlighted the college's flagship £4 million Skills Transition Centre, funded through the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal. This centre will drive innovation in skills delivery, promote inclusive growth, and align with evolving industry needs, focusing on emerging sectors while supporting the transition of key industries within the Grangemouth cluster. MacInnes also reaffirmed the college's commitment to supporting all Petroineos employees affected by the refinery closure, ensuring access to necessary training, guidance, and career opportunities.