Keith Greener Grid Park unveiled
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A WORLD leading grid technology project has been unveiled in Keith.
The Greener Grid Park, the first project of its kind to be built in the UK, will help increase the amount of renewable energy delivered via the national grid network and, in turn, reduce energy costs for consumers.
The project has been developed by Statkraft, Europe's largest generator of renewable energy, in association with the National Grid Electricity System Operator (NGESO).
Its cutting-edge technology will be instrumental in helping shape a responsible energy future by helping deliver the NGESO’s target of being able to operate a zero-carbon electricity system by 2025.
Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport, was in Moray yesterday, March 16, to unveil the project.
He said: "The energy market has faced a huge challenge due to the unprecedented increase in global gas prices, and the government has been very interested in hearing about projects and developments that not only support the energy transition but support cheaper power.
"One of the biggest instruments in decreasing the effects of the energy price hikes is to add more domestic and renewable resources to the power supply system.
"The Keith Greener Grid Park is a prime example of ways this can be done – and it was encouraging to hear more from the technical team behind the trailblazing project."
The innovative project uses two rotating stabilisers to increase the amount of renewable energy that can be utilised on the grid.
Guy Nicholson, Head of Grid Integration at Statkraft UK, said: "The Keith Greener Grid Park is one of several projects that Statkraft is championing across the UK.
"Having worked across the country for more than 15 years, we are committed to supporting the UK’s ambition for green energy and net zero targets.
"We are offering cheaper and greener solutions, reducing emissions, and saving money for electricity consumers."
The project has also given a boost to the local economy in Keith with several businesses benefitting from the £20 million development.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead, who attended the event alongside industry leaders, suppliers and community members, welcomed the launch of the project.
He said: "Moray and the north of Scotland will be at the heart of Scotland’s journey to net zero and the fact that the first facility of this kind has been developed in Keith demonstrates that our local communities have a big part to play in the production of clean, green energy.
"I was pleased to meet local businesses that had benefited from contracts for the construction. This facility has seen £50m invested in Keith and the commitment to a community benefit fund going forward is also welcome."
More information can be found here.
