Scottish taxpayers take another hit for government's wind power fantasies

Scotland's Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved up to £10 million ($13 million) to support development of the Port of Nigg's inner east quay, which will result in the creation of a new heavy-duty quayside and the introduction of roll-on roll-off capability.

HIE’s investment forms part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to invest up to £500 million over five years to anchor the nation’s controversial offshore wind supply chain.

"Port of Nigg is recognised by developers as a prime location for manufacturing and assembly of offshore wind components and has a significant track record within Scotland’s offshore wind industry, having managed over 3.5GW of assets through the facility," said the port.

In 2024, high voltage cable manufacturer Sumitomo Electric Power Cables chose to establish a £350 million high voltage cable manufacturing facility in the area - with Nigg serving as the primarily export facility.

“Since acquiring Nigg in 2011, we have invested more than £120 million in transforming the facility into a world-class offshore wind superhub, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the energy transition," claimed Chairman of Global Energy Group Roy MacGregor.