Highlands Community Councils Demand Local Control Over Energy Decisions

More than 50 community councils from the Highlands convened in Inverness to address concerns over the growing impact of renewable energy infrastructure on local governance. The meeting highlighted fears that centralised decision-making in Edinburgh is diminishing local democracy, leaving many community representatives feeling powerless to influence energy development in their areas.

Fergus Ewing, the former Scottish Minister for the Rural Economy, voiced his belief that a balanced approach to electricity generation is essential. He underscored the need for reliable energy sources, particularly during periods of low wind or sunlight. Ewing pointed to recent blackouts in Spain as a cautionary example of over-reliance on renewable sources without sufficient backup.

“The approach from the Edinburgh and London Government appears irrational and politically driven,” Ewing stated. He emphasized that rather than simply aiming for net-zero carbon emissions, there should be a comprehensive evaluation of what energy is truly needed, how it can be provided safely, and how local communities can benefit from development.

According to Ewing, the UK contributes a mere one-hundredth of global carbon emissions, while Scotland accounts for just one-tenth of that figure. He argued that addressing climate change requires a global effort, not just local initiatives.

The meeting also examined the economic implications of renewable energy projects for Highland communities. Ewing noted that average community benefit payments from such developments are approximately £3,000 per megawatt per year, although a suggested tariff of £5,000 exists. He highlighted that this figure has not kept pace with inflation, as the equivalent in today’s money would be around £12,500.

Ewing has also expressed concern over the Scottish Government’s lack of engagement with local communities. He intends to lobby the Energy Minister in Scotland to address these issues directly with community representatives. At the convention, he criticized the Scottish Government for not sending a minister to the event, citing an excuse related to active planning applications as insufficient.

Drawing parallels to past political experiences, Ewing referenced a court case involving former U.S. President Donald Trump over the Aberdeen Offshore wind farm, which he had approved. In that case, Trump argued bias due to meetings with developers, a claim dismissed by Judge Lord Docherty. Ewing expressed disappointment that the current Scottish Government seems to adopt similar tactics of avoidance.

Reflecting on the late Alex Salmond‘s leadership, Ewing lamented that Salmond would not have allowed his administration to miss such a crucial gathering without representation. He quoted a French saying: “Les absents sont toujours tort,” suggesting that those who fail to engage with their constituents are at fault.

As the convention concluded, Ewing looked ahead to other community events, including the Moy Fair, where discussions on wildfire management took place, and the upcoming Grantown Show, where he plans to support his wife in her baking competition. He also mentioned the Nairn Games, where he humorously noted his superstitions regarding a past prize.

Ewing’s call for a more balanced and community-focused approach to energy policy resonates deeply within the Highlands, where the intersection of environmental goals and local governance remains a contentious issue. The outcomes of this gathering may influence future discussions on energy policies in Scotland, as local voices continue to seek greater representation in decision-making processes.