Region's clean energy credentials attracts UK Government visit

7th May 2025

The renewable energy credentials of the Highlands and Islands has attracted a visit this week from a top UK Government official leading the drive to secure clean energy by 2030.

Chris Stark leads the UK Government's Mission for Clean Power by 2030, in the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

He will be in Inverness from Wednesday 7 May to Friday 9 May on a visit hosted by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

After a meeting with HIE’s chair, chief executive and directors he will be attending an engagement session with energy companies leading major projects in the region followed by an influencers dinner with business organisation Prosper.

On Thursday Mr Stark will visit Ardersier, Port of Nigg, Port of Cromarty Firth and the site of the £350m cable factory currently under development by Sumitomo Electric Limited.

Friday will include sessions with HIE teams looking at topics including community energy and community benefits. There will also be sessions on wave and tidal energy covering the work of project and technology developers as well as the European Marine Energy Centre in Orkney, and Wave Energy Scotland.

Stuart Black, HIE chief executive said:

"There’s no doubt that the expertise, the track record and the growth potential in this region linked to renewable energy will be absolutely vital in achieving clean energy ambitions at UK level.

“We’re delighted to welcome Chris Stark and members of his team to the region and look forward to a productive discussion where we will be highlighting the region’s credentials."

Chris Stark said:

“We’re focused on ensuring that the Clean Power Mission brings growth to the Highlands and Islands economy. It’s fantastic to see the clean power goals bring new jobs and real benefits to communities in this region.”

 

Related Businesses

 

Related Articles

Yesterday : Advisory / Counseling Services

 
HIE welcomes £350m cable factory opening

The official opening of the UK’s first HVDC subsea cable factory, located at the Port of Nigg in Easter Ross, has been welcomed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).   The facility represents an investment of £350m.  

17/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

When Community Ownership Isn't Enough: The Uncertain Future of GlenWyvis Distillery

The Highland distillery was built with the support of thousands of people who wanted to create something lasting for their community.  Its entry into administration exposes the financial risks facing ambitious local ventures, even when the original idea has widespread public support.  

8/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

Innovation and AI: New opportunities for businesses across the Highlands and Islands

Innovation has always been a defining characteristic of businesses and social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands.   Whether developing new products, finding ways to overcome the challenges of distance and geography, improving services, or identifying new markets, organisations across the region have a long track record of adapting and evolving.  

30/9/2026 : Local Authority

Scottish Cities Alliance Investment Conference to showcase Highland opportunities

Inverness will welcome government representatives, investors, business leaders and economic development partners later this week as it hosts the Scottish Cities Alliance Autumn Investor Event.  A two-day programme designed to showcase investment opportunities across Inverness, the Highlands and Scotland's city regions.  

29/9/2026 : Local Authority

Are We Trying to Save Britain’s Towns Without Planning Their Future?

Walk through almost any British town centre and you can see the evidence of change.   There are empty shops where there were once businesses.  

26/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

September is Scottish Start-Up Month – could your business idea become a reality?

September has become a month when Scotland's aspiring entrepreneurs are being encouraged to take a closer look at an idea that may have been sitting in the back of their minds for some time.   Scottish Start-Up Month, led by Business Gateway, has returned for 2026 with a simple message: if you have an idea for a business, this could be the month to take the first step.  

22/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities

Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities Scotland and Ireland are developing closer links between their Gaelic-speaking communities, with housing, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, tourism and the marine economy among the areas being explored for future cooperation.   The initiative was highlighted during a visit to Skye by Ireland's President Catherine Connolly, who met representatives of Highland organisations including Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Highland Council.  

22/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

AI Support For Businesses In Highland

Businesses and social enterprises across the Highlands and Islands are being supported to explore the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence (AI) through two new support initiatives launched today by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) as part of AI Scotland.   Applications are now open for the new AI Adoption Programme and AI Mentoring Support service, which are designed to help organisations understand, assess and implement AI technologies that can improve productivity, boost innovation and support growth.  

21/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

£1.78m innovation programme to benefit 500 businesses

A new three-year programme (14 September) is expected to help more than 500 businesses and social enterprises across the Highlands and Islands to innovate and grow.   Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved a £1.78m budget to fund the programme, which builds on ten years of innovation support by the agency.  

11/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

 
HIE appoints new area manager for Caithness and Sutherland

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has appointed Claire Wilson as its new area manager for Caithness and Sutherland.   Claire succeeds Eann Sinclair, who retired after eight years as area manager and more than three decades with HIE.