The renewables revolution in the Scottish Highlands

For centuries, the Highlands have been defined by their rugged beauty and remote character. Now, these same landscapes are at the heart of a transformative renewables revolution, poised to lead a generational shift in energy production, says Andy Sloan, Managing Director & Senior Vice President at COWI. Just as the Industrial Revolution reshaped the central belt’s landscapes and communities, the Scottish Highlands are emerging as a crucible of sustainable innovation.

From wind and hydroelectric power to green hydrogen, renewable energy projects taking root across the Highlands could do more than generate clean power. They promise to revitalise local economies, strengthen communities, and reframe Scotland’s role in the global energy landscape. With a potential economic uplift of £61 million per year for the North of Scotland if the renewable target of 20GW is met by 2030, this transition represents a pivotal moment of opportunity and transformation.

Overcoming the challenges

However, this vast opportunity comes with its challenges. The Highlands’ sparse population, approximately 238,000 residents, spread across vast and remote areas poses hurdles to infrastructure development, workforce availability, and project logistics. High transportation costs and limited access to services make strategic planning critical to ensure that progress remains both sustainable and equitable.

Meeting these challenges requires a cohesive, community-centred approach. Investing in renewable energy projects alone is not enough; parallel investment in surrounding communities is just as vital. Housing, schools, healthcare, and connectivity are as essential as wind farms and hydro plants to ensure the Highlands can become a globally recognised leader in renewable energy.

Investing in infrastructure to empower communities

The need for strategic infrastructure investment cannot be overstated. Projects like Coire Glas, a groundbreaking hydro storage development near Invergarry in Lochaber, exemplify how clean energy initiatives are being approached holistically, integrating technical innovation with sustainable development of communities. At its peak, Coire Glas will store up to 1300MW of power and create up to 500 full-time construction jobs in Scotland, transforming the region and its surrounding communities into vibrant hubs of activity.

But the true promise of these projects extends beyond energy generation. The scale of concurrent community investment required should not be viewed as a byproduct of large energy developments, but as an essential requirement. Enhancing local housing, education, healthcare, and transportation will create lasting benefits that extend far beyond the lifespan of the project itself, fostering resilience and opportunity for future generations.

As Scotland scales up its renewable ambitions, integrating investment in local services and infrastructure into the planning of every project must become the standard across all renewable energy developments. Without it, Highland communities risk missing out on the investment and opportunities that could significantly impact and enhance their lives.

Policy alignment and urgency

For Scotland to fully capitalise on this opportunity, alignment across policy, energy, and community development is key. Government must act swiftly to build the frameworks needed to ensure that investments in infrastructure, housing, and workforce development are an integral part of every renewable project. By engaging with local communities early and often, developers can build trust and ensure the benefits of these projects are shared equitably.

Legislation such as the Infrastructure Investment Plan provides a critical foundation for Scotland’s transition to becoming a renewable energy powerhouse. By outlining a strategic vision and funding mechanisms, the plan supports vital projects aimed at enhancing grid capacity, modernising transport networks, and expanding housing near renewable energy hubs.

However, while this approach marks an important step forward, continued efforts are essential to ensure infrastructure fully keeps pace with the rapid deployment of renewable technologies. Ongoing focus and investment are needed to address remaining gaps and ensure that economic growth, community resilience, and the benefits of the Renewables Revolution are truly felt across every corner of the country.

Building a skilled workforce to power the green energy transition

Scotland’s energy heritage is deeply rooted in its history of innovation and resilience, from the days of the Industrial Revolution to its pivotal role in the oil and gas sector. Today, this legacy offers a unique foundation as the nation embarks on a transformative journey to lead the green energy transition. Central to this effort is building a skilled workforce capable of supporting the ambitious renewable energy projects reshaping the Scottish Highlands.

To unlock the full potential of renewable projects in the Highlands, Scotland’s workforce must be ready to lead the energy transition. This requires a concerted effort in upskilling and reskilling—particularly for those transitioning from traditional industries like oil and gas. Training programmes in renewable project management, advanced manufacturing, and digital technologies will be critical to ensuring a pipeline of skilled workers.

Collaboration between industry, government, and educational institutions will also be vital in achieving this and ensuring that the Highlands have the talent needed to sustain their renewable revolution. Apprenticeships, specialised training schemes, and lifelong learning initiatives must be prioritised to build a workforce capable of driving innovation and supporting Scotland’s shift to green energy.

Equally important is attracting the next generation of talent and encouraging individuals and families from outside the Highlands to relocate, bringing fresh perspectives, diverse skills, and long-term investment in the community’s growth. As well as making the Highlands an attractive place to live, the renewables sector must also position itself as a desirable career choice, offering meaningful work, clear career pathways, and competitive rewards. By fostering a welcoming environment for local, national and international professionals, the Highlands can secure the workforce necessary to power this energy transformation.

The path forward

Scotland’s Renewables Revolution represents an unparalleled opportunity to reshape the country’s energy future. However, to fully realise this potential, immediate and strategic investments are needed—not just in renewable energy, but in the infrastructure and communities that will support it.

Scotland cannot afford to treat infrastructure as an afterthought. It must become an integral part of every renewable energy project, ensuring long-term benefits for communities and ensuring they are not left behind in the race to embrace green energy. As the UK accelerates its renewable ambitions, the need for a unified, strategic approach has never been clearer.

Successful implementation requires expertise that transcends traditional boundaries, adopting a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates infrastructure and energy while addressing the full range of challenges and opportunities. At COWI, we embody this approach, assembling multidisciplinary teams who understand not just individual project elements but the intricate relationships between technological innovation, environmental stewardship, and community resilience.

This is Scotland’s moment to redefine its legacy—not only as a producer of energy, but as a leader in sustainable, community-driven development. The window of opportunity is closing fast, and with bold, decisive action, the Highlands can emerge as the heart of the Renewables Revolution.

The time to act is now.

If you would like to read more stories like this, then please click here