Highland Council has reaffirmed its commitment towards exploring new renewable energy schemes in the region.
It made the commitment after releasing a video highlighting ways it is working to deliver on its Net Zero ambitions.
It also reaffirmed the council’s vision as a centre for global renewable energy, including developing solar, wind and wave projects.
Chairwoman of the climate change committee, Councillor Sarah Fanet, said: “Climate change is the greatest challenge of our lifetime. Severe weather and climate impacts are already affecting communities across the Highlands and our service delivery.
“This is one of the many reasons why The Highland Council is committed to realising its vision for Net Zero and backing this up with a major investment programme.
“It is vital that we adapt to a changing economy as the world transitions to Net Zero. The work we are taking forward is about developing and supporting our Net Zero Programme so it is firmly embedded in all of our operations and service delivery activities and we are well placed when it comes to planning for the future.”
The council said that energy developments can bring major opportunities to cut energy consumption or increase new sources of energy, creating potential cost benefits and new sources of income.
The council has highlighted its commitment through projects like the River Ness hydro scheme.
Chair of the economy and infrastructure committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: “We already have several successful solar arrays and hydro schemes, including the multi-award-winning Ness Hydro Scheme which offsets our reliance on the grid and reduces our carbon footprint by harnessing the power of the River Ness into a renewable energy source.
“Affordable energy is crucial to Highland, with energy efficiency and heat decarbonisation bringing a wide range of benefits to households and businesses. We will continue to explore new renewable energy schemes to provide energy to our estate and the national grid.
“But in addition to this, work will also be focussed on improving energy efficiency. Our offices and depots need to be fit for purpose, to save money, and deliver on our net zero ambitions, and we need to do more when it comes to sustainable travel and transport.”
The council’s fleet and staff travel currently represents 21 per cent of corporate emissions.
It said that it was working with staff to reduce the number of miles travelled through new ways of working and active travel. It is also downsizing its fleet and replacing vehicles with low emission alternatives, including an electric ferry for the Corran Narrows.
The video ‘Net Zero, Energy Investment & Innovation’ is available to watch now on Highland Council’s YouTube channel.
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