Offshore Wind Employment 2023-05-17
2023-05-17
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP notes that Scotland is losing out on employment opportunities and community benefits in the offshore wind sector compared to Ireland.
What recent discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues and the Scottish Government on maximising employment opportunities in the offshore wind sector? It is not just about employment but also about community benefit, where Ireland ensures €24 million per annum goes to coastal communities hosting offshore renewable projects. In East Lothian, there will be turbines coming ashore at Cockenzie and Torness without any provision for offshore wind and onshore communities.
The future for Scotland's offshore wind sector is bright. As part of our “Powering up Britain” package, the floating offshore wind manufacturing investment scheme is currently open to applications. Through the scheme, we will distribute funding to support critical port infrastructure that will enable the delivery of floating offshore wind and provide quality employment opportunities for years to come.
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Assessment & feedback
€24 million per annum community benefit provision in Ireland
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights the disparity between Irish and UK community benefits for hosting offshore renewable energy projects.
In Ireland, €24 million per annum goes to coastal communities hosting offshore renewable projects. In the UK, there is a legislative gap preventing similar provisions for onshore communities hosting offshore wind energy. East Lothian has Cockenzie and Torness where energy will come ashore with turbines in sight; what share should communities like these have?
The growth of our green industries will lead to new jobs and many benefits for our communities. We are producing a net zero and nature workforce action plan in 2024 with initial proposals from the net zero power and networks pilot working group followed by comprehensive actions by summer 2023.
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Assessment & feedback
€24 million per annum community benefit provision in Ireland
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raises the importance of marine energy, particularly tidal stream, for Scotland's renewable energy sector.
Marine Scotland needs to increase the speed at which it approves sites for future tidal stream developments under contracts for difference. The European Marine Energy Centre in Orkney highlights this issue. Does he agree that improving site approval processes could enhance marine energy development?
Scotland has benefited from contracts for difference, which is a Government flagship support scheme for large-scale renewable projects. In relation to tidal, round 4 awarded over 40 MW of new tidal stream power.
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Assessment & feedback
speed of approving sites for tidal stream development
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP criticises the UK Government for lacking an energy strategy and delivering on promises in Scotland's renewable sector.
The UK Government lacks a proper energy strategy, focusing instead on short-term solutions funded by taxpayers. The Scottish Government failed to deliver promised jobs and missed climate targets according to the STUC report. Does he agree that Labour has a better solution for creating high-quality, well-paid renewable jobs?
The hon. Member is correct to highlight the targets missed by the SNP Government in Edinburgh. The UK Government are determined to maximise opportunities for Scottish workforce growth in renewables.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP criticises the UK Government for allowing raw sewage dumping and failing to deliver on renewable energy jobs.
This UK Government's refusal to stop pumping raw sewage into waterways is a disgraceful practice. With both Governments allowing this scandal, why should people believe in promises about green jobs and renewable industries when they are not being kept?
The UK Government have a proud record of tackling sewage discharges, highlighting that the policy is devolved to the Scottish Government. The SNP has allowed sewage dumping in Scotland's waters, including environmentally protected sites.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy