Commenting on the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ report about support for renewable energy projects in Scotland, Liberal Democrat Energy spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP said:

“The IME report brings the problems facing the marine renewable industry into sharp focus.

“Marine energy is a fast moving industry. That is why I have been calling on Ministers to ensure that hubs like the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) maintain their world leading competitive edge.

“Independent experts are clear that if the testing process for wave and tidal energy projects is expanded, the whole process of developing marine energy could be sped up.

“The IME report is a welcome contribution to the essential debate about how we can safeguard the future of marine energy.”