Renewable energy development can be a key economic driver across the Western Isles, according to a new study.

A Scottish Government report has identified various economic and community benefits from different forms of renewable energy developments, that can exist in harmony with environmental designations in the Islands.

The study found onshore wind energy offers the greatest economic and community benefit.

The best opportunities are south and west of Stornoway, with potential for a 150 Megawatts (MW) wind farm in North Lewis in addition to projects already in planning.

Smaller, community led wind development is more suitable in Harris, the Uists and Barra.

There is Marine potential of 105 MW by 2015 - Inshore wave potential is around 30 MW, tidal potential of 75 MW in the Sound of Harris, and much greater energy potential in the offshore wave resource.


A local wind energy control centre could be developed as a shared Islands-wide resource, while encouraging developers to procure direct drive turbines at Arnish Point would create jobs in new technologies.

Enterprise Minister Jim Mather said: "We want all areas of Scotland to be able to fully harness our vast potential for cheap, clean and green electricity.

"Maximising that potential brings economic and community benefits and the people of the Western Isles are no different in wanting to use their natural resources to build a sustainable economy."

Mr Campbell, leader of Comehairle nan Eilean Siar, welcomed the publication of the report and the governments commitment to the isles but spoke of his disappointment that the report only identifies a potential of 150MW for North Lewis.

"Particularly given the excellent wind resources of the islands.

"That is a wasted resource at a time of economic challenge for the islands. The comhairle's view is that around 75 turbines would be required to provide the stimulus needed to provide appropriate economic impacts, including the regeneration of the Arnish Yard."

Campbell said the most important finding of the study must be further action on the development of renewable energy in the Outer Hebrides.

The Scottish Government commissioned the study after refusing consent to the Lewis 181-turbine wind farm on grounds of incompatibility with European law.

(GK/JM)