A £10 million public investment has been approved to support a major redevelopment project at the Port of Nigg in the Highlands, aimed at boosting the port’s capacity and capabilities for the offshore wind industry.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has greenlighted the funding to upgrade the Inner East Quay, which will include the development of a new heavy-duty quayside and the introduction of roll-on roll-off capability. The project is subject to formal approval by Global Energy Nigg Limited.
The investment is part of the Scottish Government’s broader strategy to reinforce Scotland’s position in the growing offshore wind sector. It is also in line with the government’s plan to invest up to £500 million over five years to strengthen the offshore wind supply chain.
“The project is crucial for enhancing the UK’s energy sector, particularly renewable energy, while fostering economic growth and job creation in the Highlands and Islands,” said David Oxley, Director of Strategic Projects at HIE. “By facilitating further Scottish Government funding, we aim to solidify our international competitiveness in this vital industry.”
The Port of Nigg has long been recognized as a strategic site for the manufacturing and assembly of offshore wind components. To date, the port has handled over 3.5GW of offshore wind assets, solidifying its reputation within Scotland’s offshore wind industry.
The development project follows the 2024 establishment of a £350 million high-voltage cable manufacturing facility in the region by Sumitomo Electric Power Cables Ltd, with Nigg identified as the primary export hub.
This investment is also aligned with the Scottish Government’s commitment to attract private sector funding, as evidenced by the upcoming Global Offshore Wind Investment Forum in Edinburgh. Over 100 stakeholders, including investors and developers, are expected to attend the event, which will explore new opportunities for the offshore wind sector.
First Minister John Swinney, who is hosting the forum, emphasized the importance of offshore wind to Scotland’s economic future. “The growth and success of Scotland’s offshore wind industry is not only an ambition of my government, it is a priority for me personally,” he said. “By capitalizing on this emerging market, we are not only meeting our climate obligations but creating significant new jobs and economic opportunities.”
The Scottish Government’s Green Industrial Strategy identifies offshore wind as a key area for investment, with a goal to leverage £1.5 billion in private investment. The government anticipates that the sector could generate up to £100 billion in value over time.
The £10 million redevelopment project at Port of Nigg is expected to further cement Scotland’s leadership in the offshore wind industry, creating opportunities for both domestic and international stakeholders.
