UHI Islands Forum to drive forward islands' role in green energy transition

The powerful force of the islands in driving green energy transition will be the focus of today's UHI Islands Forum hosted by UHI North, West and Hebrides in Stornoway.

Stakeholders from across the UHI partnership (including island-based academic partners UHI Shetland, UHI Orkney, UHI Argyll, UHI North, West and Hebrides, and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig), will join Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (CnES), Skills Development Scotland, Plus Zero, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, and the Scottish Government today and tomorrow to explore how the islands can deliver on the green energy transition while creating new opportunities for communities, skills, and jobs. 

Day one at UHI North, West and Hebrides’ Stornoway campus will showcase the progress of island-based innovation, with a highlight being a tour of the new Technology and Innovation Centre. 

Opened earlier this year as the first capital project under the Islands Growth Deal, the centre is expanding the college’s capacity to train learners in renewable energy, engineering, construction, sustainability and net zero. Facilities include a Future Energy Lab, a Hydrogen Innovation Lab, virtual welding simulators, and dedicated STEM spaces for schools' engagement. 

Day two, hosted by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, will look ahead to future strategy. Sessions will address the opportunities and challenges of achieving island energy autonomy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and building a skilled local workforce to meet the demands of Scotland’s energy transition. 

Lydia Rohmer, Principal and Chief Executive of UHI North, West and Hebrides, said: “Our islands have always been resourceful and forward-looking, and we are determined that they will be leaders in Scotland’s green energy transition. The UHI Islands Forum provides the opportunity to connect education, research, government and industry in a shared mission – to secure affordable, sustainable energy and to inspire the skilled workforce that will deliver it, securing lasting benefits for our communities, with routes into high value jobs for young people and families.  

“UHI North, West and Hebrides is proud to play its part as an anchor institution for our communities, delivering the skills and knowledge that will shape a just and prosperous transition for our islands.” 

The UHI Islands Forum meets twice a year to monitor and support delivery of the UHI Islands Strategy, ensuring that tertiary education and research play a pivotal role in tackling the unique challenges and opportunities faced by island communities. 

For more information, please contact Michelle MacLeod, Marketing and Communications Officer, UHI North, West and Hebrides. Email: communications.nwh@uhi.ac.uk or telephone 01851 770 223.