Liam McArthur, Liberal Democrat Energy spokesperson, has demanded that Ministers end the uncertainty over the future of Research and Development funding for marine energy.

Mr McArthur had lodged a series of Parliamentary Questions to clear up the confusion surrounding the future of the Wave and Tidal Energy Scheme (WATES). The answers show that while Ministers are rightly seeking the views of Forum of Renewable Energy in Scotland’s (FREDS) Marine Group, there is a continued lack of certainty about future funding. Moreover it is possible that there will be a funding gap if current funding runs out and there is no prospect of a decision about future support for the industry.

Mr McArthur has lodged further questions to confirm if this is the case and what action the Government will take.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

“What was introduced by Nicol Stephen last year has been a success. It has strengthened Scottish marine energy companies and encouraged others to locate operations in Scotland. In his answers to me, the Minister acknowledges as much.

“Yet he continues to dither and offer no clarity about the Government’s future intentions. At present, there is no forward plan for funding research for marine energy, apart from the one-off Saltire Prize, which is nowhere near to being awarded, despite innumerable launches.

“Meanwhile, current funding is running out and with no deadline for a decision about future funding, there is a risk of a funding gap.

“Research and Development funding is crucial for thousands of green collar jobs across the country and Scotland’s reputation as a centre of excellence for marine energy is at stake.

“It will be a travesty if Government indecision on this issue puts at risk Scotland’s world-leading marine renewables industry.”