Powering the UK's energy transition
North Highland is a proven base for offshore and onshore wind – combining world-class natural resources, port infrastructure, skilled people, and a track record of delivery at scale.
Offshore wind is a major growth sector, with several major developments active or consented along our coastline:
- Beatrice Offshore Windfarm – 84 turbines with 588MW capacity.
- Moray East and West – set to add 1.8GW of clean energy.
- West of Orkney – 2GW development received offshore consent in 2025. Anticipated £105m supply chain investment.
- Pentland – Proposed development off the north west coast of Caithness will be the largest floating wind site in the world.
- Stromar and Ayre – proposed within the next decade and together adding 2GW capacity.
In onshore wind, the Highlands produces 46% of Scotland’s output, with 432MW installed capacity in the north Highland region and another 40 windfarms in the planning pipeline.
Key figures
North Highland is leading the transition to a low carbon economy.
Energy from offshore wind
Existing and consented offshore wind developments in North Highland add 5GW of clean energy to the national grid.
Electricity from onshore wind
Our region produces 12.5 times the electricity it consumes, from onshore wind alone.
A Just Transition
Our region’s exceptional natural resources place North Highland at the forefront of the transition to a low-carbon economy. Working in close partnership with developers, we are focused on maximising the long-term economic value of wind energy for our communities.
North Highland has already secured permanent jobs, funded apprenticeships, STEM training, community benefit, and significant capital investment from wind farm developers operating locally. Our role now is to ensure these opportunities are coordinated and aligned – turning renewable energy development into lasting, inclusive prosperity and a sustainable future for the region.
Related projects
Apprenticeships
Discover the funding available to support apprenticeships and graduate placements across North Highland.
Net Zero Accelerator
Our partners funded free, 1-2-1 carbon reduction training for SMEs across Caithness and
North Sutherland.
Just Transition Commission
Focus North was a featured case study at the Just Transition Summit, highlighting the positive impacts of collaboration.
Join us in shaping the future
Be a part of the transformation. Connect with us to explore opportunities that drive positive change in North Highland.