Case Studies - Future Developments

Research Programme

 A research programme should be established to develop new ideas in all areas of renewable energy. For example, alternative means of harnessing wind energy other than very large turbines could be investigated. Mass production of smaller units could provide employment in a new industry. Solar water heaters are already manufactured in the Highlands. Heat pump technology is not widely used, but is very effective. There is a huge potential for wood-chip heating in the area.  The Environmental Research Institute, Thurso, has already carried out a number of projects.  

The Pentland Firth.

The Pentland Firth is a huge energy resource right on our doorstep. We should encourage ideas and developments both in wave energy and tidal flow. Robert Gordon's University have carried out studies on the Pentland Firth but to date no energy has been harnessed.  A literature review has been carried out by the Environmental Research Institute, Thurso.