ScottishPower is supporting the newly established Scottish European Green Energy Centre (SEGEC), based in Aberdeen. SEGEC will play a catalytic role in accelerating the development, demonstration and deployment of new energy technologies, through its work in Scotland and with partners across Europe.

First Minister Alex Salmond marked the establishment of the SEGEC today (Monday 17th August), by visiting the company’s new office and announcing the award of a European Regional Development Grant of up to £1.6m.

SEGEC’s aims reflect the Government’s priorities of sustainable economic development and combating climate change, and priorities will include marine energy, offshore wind, grid development, carbon capture and storage and renewable heat.

Gordon McGregor, Energy and Environment Director at ScottishPower, said: "We are pleased to be supporting The Scottish European Green Energy Centre, which has an important role to play in further establishing relationships across Europe that will benefit green technology and future developments in Scotland. Scotland has some of the best natural resources in the world for developing low carbon technology, and groundbreaking projects have already been implemented here. This year ScottishPower Renewables completed Europe's largest onshore windfarm at Whitelee near Glasgow and Longannet power station in Fife started a project to test carbon capture technology - a UK first. This initiative will help to ensure that Scotland can build on its strong position with further benefits for our environment, and our economy."

The centre will provide a team of specialist staff and a focal point for Scottish organisations seeking to influence European policy, undertake collaborative research and demonstration projects and access funding from the European Union.
 

Media Information: Paul Ferguson 0141 566 4515 / 07702 665 924