£100 billion potential of ‘transformational’ projects in the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands
A recent study commissioned by the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands Regional Economic Partnership (HIREP), of which the University of the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands (ÐÔÊӽ紫ý) is a member, has identified over £100 billion in potential investment across the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands, along with the creation of thousands of jobs.
Research specialists ekosgen describe the 251 planned development projects in the economic pipeline as ‘regional transformational opportunities’, and the scale of opportunity as ‘unprecedented’, potentially for Scotland and much of the UK.
Around three-quarters of the total investment is projected to come from renewable energy projects, including offshore and onshore wind, pumped storage hydro, green hydrogen, and marine energy. Other sectors include space, marine biotech, life sciences, natural capital and critical infrastructure. These projects are well dispersed across many of ÐÔÊӽ紫ý’s communities.
This report also reflects the ambitions of the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Strategic Plan 2030, which sets out ÐÔÊӽ紫ý’s role as an anchor institution supporting economic growth, environmental sustainability, and research and innovation excellence across the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands. The plan highlights the importance of strong partnerships with industry and communities to address regional and national priorities, and the development of a highly skilled workforce to meet future demands.
Stephen Sheridan, Director of Economic Development and Advancement at ÐÔÊӽ紫ý, said:
"The University of the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands welcomes the findings of this comprehensive report. At ÐÔÊӽ紫ý, we are committed to supporting the region’s economic growth through our curriculum and research. We look forward to playing a pivotal role in upskilling and reskilling the workforce to meet the demands of a green economy. Together, we can ensure these investments leave a lasting legacy for our communities and drive sustainable growth for the future."
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:
“The skills, talent and natural resources running across the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands are well known but this report sets out the true scale of the opportunities that lie ahead.
“The challenge now is to capitalise on this promise. I look forward to working alongside our public and private sector partners to deliver on this enormous potential, creating thousands of top-quality jobs for future generations.”
The ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands Regional Economic Partnership (HIREP) brings together public, private, third sector and academic perspectives in a partnership committed to delivering prosperity and opportunity across the whole of the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý and Islands.