Record Presence At International Energy Show From Highland

20th May 2012

Largest ever regional presence for Highlands and Islands at international energy show.

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland will once again have the largest regional presence at the All Energy exhibition and conference in Aberdeen this week (Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th May 2012).

Seventy six companies are to come together under the banner of HI-Energy to showcase the region's world-leading renewable energy expertise and supply chain capabilities. The HI-energy zone is made up of exhibitors from across the Highlands and Islands and includes regional pavilions from Orkney, Shetland, Caithness and Argyll.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) manages the over-arching HI-Energy pavilion on behalf of the region's energy industry to ensure the area's extensive renewable energy offerings are promoted, including its leading role in offshore renewables, experienced supply chain and world-class facilities.

The last three years have seen a record number of Highlands and Islands companies taking part, but with an increase of almost 60% since 2009, HIE says this is an indication of the importance of the industry to the Highlands and Islands and Scotland as a whole.

HIE's Director of Energy and Low Carbon, Calum Davidson said:

"All Energy is one of the most important events of the year for us and our companies. Every year we have a record number of businesses that join us and this year is no exception. The Highlands and Islands is known to be leading the world in the development of wave and tidal energy, and the skills and experience of our companies are sought after around the world.

"The announcement of the five Enterprise Area sites and Nigg Energy Park receiving Enterprise Zone status, the establishment of the Nigg Skills Academy, EMEC reaching full capacity at its wave and tidal test sites, significant progress in offshore wind projects on our east and west coasts, and major investment in infrastructure across the region all make this a particularly exciting year. We have a huge number of companies who are at the forefront of energy research, development and supply chain expertise and this is recognised internationally."

As part of the two-day exhibition, HIE is holding a networking event at the end of the first day, which will give exhibitors the opportunity to invite potential and existing clients to meet the wider Highlands and Islands supply chain.

The Highlands and Islands' leading role in the renewables sector will be woven throughout the two-day conference, and senior representatives from HIE will deliver key notes. Mr Davidson will update the conference on the region's marine energy progress in the Pentland Firth and Orkney waters, and will also contribute to wider discussions on the role of marine energy parks throughout the UK. Also presenting at the conference is HIE's Chief Executive Alex Paterson on the offshore wind supply chain and HIE Board member Steve Thomson on 'energy islands'.

 

Related Businesses

 

Related Articles

31/10/2026 : Local Authority

Caithness at the Sharp End: Broadband, Buses and Public Services Under Pressure

From the loss of a direct bus link to Inverness to uncertainty over rural broadband, a difficult council budget and the future of community organisations, the past week has provided plenty for Caithness residents to think about.  But there have also been celebrations, local achievements and signs of community spirit.  

31/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

The North Sea's Changing Future: What Does It Mean for Jobs and Investment in Caithness?

The future of the North Sea energy industry is once again attracting considerable attention.  With the UK Government facing difficult decisions about oil and gas production, energy security, investment and the transition towards renewable energy.  

23/10/2026 : Marine Services

HIE funding supports new strategy role at Wick Harbour

Wick Harbour Authority (WHA) is to appoint a new strategy manager after securing up to £52,500 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help fund the post.   The post holder will help WHA deliver its emerging harbour masterplan and outline business case, strengthen capacity and develop new business opportunities.  

20/10/2026 : 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.