ScottishPower Renewables has committed to a £10,000 annual investment in skills training and education for Tiree people to help gain qualifications linked to employment in renewable energy.
The Tiree Renewable Energy Skills, Education and Training (RESET) Fund will be used to provide financial support to eligible candidates pursuing post-school education or training and was developed following discussions with Tiree Community Development Trust (TCDT).
SPR plans to deliver funding annually throughout its feasibility studies from 2012 onwards and the company is currently preparing a planning application for the Argyll Array Windfarm, expected to be submitted in the second half of 2014.
Ralph Thornton , senior project manager at ScottishPower Renewables said: “Scotland’s renewable energy sector has the potential to be a considerable growth industry for this country and provide many employment opportunities for Scots going forward. This kind of investment in training and education, directly linked to renewable energy, is key to delivering the new generation of skilled workers to help power our low carbon future.”
Award amounts are expected to vary from £150 – £1000.
[mappress]
Offshore WIND staff, July 11, 2012; Image: ScottishPower Renewables