Dr Sarah Skerratt (right) of SAC’s Rural Policy Centre said: “The development of on- and off-shore renewable energy projects is likely to increase in importance in the coming 15 years. Drivers include the Scottish Government’s commitment to increased renewables targets and increasing community interest in renewables as a revenue stream for community investment. 


“Given this growing momentum, it is timely to pause and question who benefits. We often hear differing accounts from developers and communities. Press reports offer a range of views and the high profile cases that receive the most exposure may not always present the full range of challenges and opportunities presented by the growth of renewables in Scotland. Our event will aim to distil the differing perspectives into a clearer set of recommended actions for policymakers.”

The debate, to be held at the New Drumossie Hotel, Inverness, will be chaired by (left) David Green (SAC Board member and Chair of Cairngorms National Park).

Four confirmed speakers: Tom Mallows, Consents and External Relations Manager, The Crown  Estate; Martin Mathers   Community Relations Manager (right) Scottish Power Renewables;  Gary Connor, Partner, Nova Innovation,
and Stuart Robertson, ex-local government Planning Gain Manager, Member of Institute of Environmental Scientists.