Energy company ESB and the University of Highlands and Islands (UHI) Shetland have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the Stoura floating offshore wind farm project. The agreement will focus on education, data sharing, research, and long-term environmental monitoring, with the aim of supporting the Scottish Government's climate action goals.
The MoU, signed during a public engagement session at the Shetland Museum and Archives on 19 September, reflects a shared commitment to developing the skills needed for Scotland's renewable energy future.
Cian Desmond, project director at ESB, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “A central focus of this MoU will be seeking to replicate the enormous success of the Shetland Oil Terminal Environmental Advisory Group (SOTEAG) model in the context of a floating wind farm.” He added that the collaboration aims to transform Stoura into a “living laboratory” to provide training opportunities and foster a local knowledge-based economy in floating wind technology.
Jane Lewis, principal and chief executive of UHI Shetland, emphasized the educational and research benefits, noting, “We look forward to working with Stoura on education, teaching and training, especially to develop skills to deliver on the Scottish Government's climate action targets, as well as to support industry demand for the wind renewables sector.”
A follow-up public engagement session will be held in 2025 to discuss the onshore aspects of the floating wind farm.
