BUSINESS INSIGHT: Disappointing net zero targets announcement
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The Highlands are used to Scottish Government targets being moved and whilst we acknowledge the recent revised commitments on the A9 dualling following the transport remit now being elevated to a cabinet secretary post, I am somewhat disappointed by the announcements last week which now push back the net zero targets we had for 2030.
Sceptics have always questioned the ability to deliver on the ambitions for 2030 however industry has taken up the challenge and there are a number of organisations who are still on course to meet these targets, so we call for government to focus immediately on the key areas around offshore wind consenting and grid connections.
The Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport has a crucial role to play in support of net zero and will play a leading role in the transformation of the energy sector for the UK, Europe and beyond.
Earlier this month we saw the legislation for the tax sites go live which will help attract industry, last week we saw approval for 66 new homes in Invergordon which will support the housing challenge and we also saw HIE signing a Memorandum of Understanding with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries unlocking the potential to drive significant investment and jobs into the region.
Last week, Prosper were delighted to have Professor Sir John Curtice join members to offer his expert insights into the next General Election and this followed on from the launch of our General Election manifesto which asks if parties have a programme which supports a prosperous future?
Based on our analysis of what needs to change, we have devised six tests to address key weaknesses and increase Scotland’s success in the global economy. The manifesto urges all parties to implement a programme for government that will:
• Increase investment (including a stable economic strategy)
• Drive up productivity
• Support a skilled workforce and a growing working age population across Scotland
• Contain specific measures to nurture business purpose
• Include a credible plan to transition to a net-zero economy
• Include measures to build place-based growth
Grant Campbell is Prosper’s regional manager.
