Major wind turbine factory set to create 500 Scots jobs

Vestas intends to open a plant to produce nacelles and hubs - a major component in building a wind turbine.

The new factory comes after the UK Government’s record-breaking AR7 offshore wind auction which secured a record 8.4GW of new offshore wind.

The plans unveiled by Vestas are conditional to further order intake from AR7 and and the next auction AR8.

It follows the launch of a new UK government innovative trial, predominantly benefiting Scotland and launching in time for this winter, enabling energy companies to offer discounted energy bills to customers on windy days, rather than continuing the previous default practice of paying wind turbines to turn off.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “The Government’s clean energy mission is delivering good industrial jobs for Scottish workers- boosting growth as part of our drive to give the UK energy security.

“This investment has happened because of the Government’s record-breaking offshore wind auction and the confidence our mission has given industry to invest in Scotland. We will not stop in driving to create many more jobs like these for Scotland and the UK.

Henrik Andersen, CEO of Vestas, said: “The UK government has made a big statement with AR7, showcasing how wind energy creates a positive impact on energy security, sustainability, and affordability for end consumers. We welcome the UK and Scottish governments’ dedication to fostering a competitive offshore wind market and look forward to working together to progress our co-investment plans.

“Establishing a nacelle and hub assembly factory in Scotland would create hundreds of local jobs and support further jobs across the wider supply chain, delivering long‑lasting economic benefits to the region."