Scottish Highland and Islands Renewable Energy Conference and Awards 2022
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It was a day of collaboration and celebration of all things renewable at the Scottish Highland and Islands Renewable Energy Conference (SHREC) and awards.
Sponsored by Harper Macleod in partnership with Highland News and Media, last week’s event provided time for sector leaders and innovators to discuss a range of issues impacting the region and what steps could be taken for a more sustainable future.
Running for its 13th year, speakers included Harper MacLeod’s David Bone, who kicked off the event talking about the event’s overall theme of tackling climate change versus energy security with a focus on post-COP26 findings.
Nick Flynn, head of legal at the Avaaz Foundation, hosted a seminar on climate anxiety and policy influence.
Elsewhere delegates took part in a discussion about how best to deal with the skills shortages in the renewable energy sector, focusing on how to upskill the workforce in the future.
Other themes covered throughout the virtual conference included the energy crisis in Europe; greener spaces; sustainable tourism; skills; immigration and collaboration.
George Baxter, director of Highland Tourism CIC, called for collaboration between the renewable and tourism sectors in order to benefit Highland communities.
He said millions of pounds could be directed into sustainable projects, creating a sustainable legacy in both sectors within the region.
“My epiphany was that both industries have a responsibility to work together to create a sustainable economy across the region,” he said.
“And with the climate emergency as an overriding priority for every one of us, the responsibility has never been greater.”
After the conference, delegates gathered together to celebrate those who are leading the way in both onshore and offshore renewable energy within the region.
Awards were given to a range of businesses and individuals across the region who have been blazing a trail in creating a more sustainable Scotland.
The big winner on the evening was Douglas Leask, of Leask Marine, who was granted the outstanding achievement award.
Sponsored by Harper Macleod, the award recognised Mr Leask for his remarkable contribution to the development of the Highlands as a centre of excellence for the renewable energy industry.
Paying tribute, awards chairman Mr Bone said: “The experience and technical knowledge we have in this industry could not have happened without the support of unique marine specialists in the supply chain, and tonight’s winner is one of those.
“He and his company have successfully completed 159 wave and tidal projects, 43 offshore wind developments and 65 renewable energy infrastructure schemes together with an additional 122 marine infrastructure projects. He has also supported over 50 international clients in 11 countries.
“The judges were particularly impressed not just with the variety of work carried out by our winner but the scale of achievement and sheer drive and ambition to do things better every day.”
Accepting his award online from his home on Orkney, Mr Leask was touched to have been recognised for his hard work.
“It’s blown me away and I don’t know what to say to be honest,” he said.
“I have put my heart, life and soul into this business of the renewables industry for the last 20 years.
“It’s been a challenge without doubt but I’ve loved every wind and tidal project we’ve worked on.”
Mr Leask paid tribute to his team and hopes to encourage more young people into the industry.
He said: “I have a fantastic team and I am so fortunate to have every single one of them.
“I enjoy nothing more than having youngsters with us who have enthusiasm and I want more to join us in this industry.”
