Information Bulletin
29 March 2006
Shetland Windfarm Representatives Meet RSPB
Shetland has ambitious plans to build a large scale, community owned windfarm.
The 600Mw Viking Windfarm could underpin economic prosperity in Shetland for decades to come. In addition it would have significant potential to help tackle climate change.
Estimates suggest the electricity produced would result in annual CO² emission reductions in excess of 2 million tonnes.
Those behind the project are keen to stress that such progress must be balanced with the maintenance and protection of Shetland’s world-renowned natural environment.
As part of this process Drew Ratter recently led a high level delegation to meet RSPB experts in Edinburgh.
Mr Ratter said afterwards “It is clear we want to build a windfarm, but we want to do so in a spirit of mutual understanding with the key environmental stakeholders”. He added, “We are very grateful to Lloyd Austin and his team at RSPB Scotland, for an excellent meeting. It lays a foundation for a meaningful relationship, at an early stage of this important project”. Lloyd Austin commented "RSPB Scotland was delighted to meet with SIC and Viking Energy to discuss this proposal. Climate change is a serious environmental issue and renewable energy sources are one part of the solution. Such developments should, however, be well planned and well managed to avoid other environmental impacts. This proposal has avoided the most important designated wildlife areas in Shetland and the degree of cooperation with conservation organisations on research and survey into wildlife has established a new level of best practice. No one should prejudge the outcome of an environmental assessment but developing mutual understanding at an early stage offers the best chance of a successful and mutually beneficial outcome, and overcoming any problems that arise. We look forward to working with SIC and Viking Energy as the project develops."
About Viking Energy Ltd
Viking Energy Ltd is a company established to represent Shetland Islands Council’s interests in windfarm development in Shetland.
Viking Energy Ltd has a joint proposal with Scottish and Southern Energy plc for a 600 Mw windfarm in Shetland, currently dependent on the introduction of a sub-sea cable between Shetland and the Scottish Mainland.
Drew Ratter is a member of Shetland Islands Council and the Chair of Economic Development within the Council.
About Lloyd Austin
Lloyd Austin is Head of Policy Operations at RSPB Scotland.
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