Marine energy threat

12.00.00am GMT Thu 6th Mar 2008

Local MP John Thurso yesterday raised the potential for marine energy in the Pentland Firth at Scottish Questions and criticised DBERR for dragging its feet in assisting the development and exploitation of the potential energy.

Speaking after the exchange, John Thurso said:

"On this side of the Firth the project team which has been formed to develop marine renewable technology is making great strides but there is a serious problem in the wording of the Energy Bill currently before Parliament.

"As presently drafted, I believe it may prevent firms which have accessed government support in the development stage from being eligible for ROC's which, if correct, would seriously undermine the commercial case for exploitation.

"I have today therefore followed up my question with a detailed letter to both the Energy Minister, Malcolm Wicks, MP, and Scotland Office Minister David Cairns, MP. Since both these Ministers attended the Caithness conference last year and therefore clearly understand the importance to our future economy of the marine renewable project I would hope that they will take these points on board and amend the Bill during its passage through Parliament."