The vast renewable energy resource in the Western Isles must be properly harnessed, Scottish Government Minister Jim Mather said.

The Energy Minister announced a study to examine how to derive economic and community benefit from renewable developments, while respecting environmental obligations.

Speaking at the Comhairle's energy Summit on Monday, Mr Mather said: "The Western Isles have a vast and enviable resource to develop renewable energy – from onshore wind to energy from wave and tide.

"There must be renewable energy development across the Isles if we are to ensure that the opportunities and benefits of a renewables revolution can be shared fairly across Scotland.

"At the same time, the Western Isles also enjoys an outstanding natural environment which is protected in places under European law. We must find a way to ensure developments proceed in harmony with ensure developments proceed in harmony with environmental obligations."

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He continued: "We have asked the Comhairle, HIE, SNH and SEPA and other stakeholders to work with us and help conduct a study to be ready by the autumn.

"When completed, the study will set the stage for sustainable development to provide a base for economic, social and community renewal on the islands."

The key objectives of the study are:

• To identify renewable energy potential, including the role of different scales of commercial and community-based wind farms and hydro schemes. It should seek to outline the extent, in scale and timescale, to which this potential can deliver economic and community development compatible with environmental obligations
• And on a similar basis, to identify other opportunities for sustainable development initiatives at different scales which might contribute to delivering economic and community benefit compatible with environmental obligations
• Produce a report and recommendations for action at a community rather than individual site level

(JM)