UK Media: Mingyang Group's Plan: Chinese Company's Highland Port Project Blocked by UK Government

Chinese renewable energy company Mingyang Smart Energy Group has stated that its plan to establish the UK’s largest wind turbine manufacturing facility in the Scottish Highlands has been blocked by the UK government.

Mingyang had proposed building a £1.5 billion facility at Ardersier, near Nairn.

The company said in a statement that it was disappointed by the decision but would continue to engage with the UK government "constructively."

The UK government said the turbines produced at the factory are not suitable for offshore wind projects in the UK and therefore could not be supported.

However, the Scottish government criticized the time taken to make the decision and warned of "far-reaching consequences."

In January this year, the UK government had previously indicated that a decision on whether to approve Mingyang’s project was expected "very soon."

UK Trade Secretary Sir Chris Bryant said the government must ensure investment in the port is "secure and reliable."

Bryant said on BBC Radio Scotland Breakfast that the UK must remain vigilant in its relationship with China and challenge China on certain issues.

Mingyang announced the factory plan last year, expecting it to create 1,500 jobs.

A company spokesperson told BBC Scotland News: "We are disappointed by the UK government’s decision not to allow the use of Mingyang’s world-leading technology."

The spokesperson added that this decision missed a major opportunity to increase competition in the wind turbine market and create up to 1,500 jobs.

The spokesperson also warned that this move could keep energy prices high for households and industries in the UK for longer periods amid global energy disruptions.

"We will continue constructive engagement with the UK government, including on the critical issue of national security, and remain committed to supporting the UK’s mission to become a clean energy superpower."

"We still believe in the long-term potential of the UK market, and our plans remain unchanged."

"Welcome to Investment from China"

The UK government said the renewable energy sector had been consulted on the use of these turbines within UK waters and energy systems.

A spokesperson said: "After careful consideration, the government’s view is that we cannot support their use in UK offshore wind projects."

"We will always act to protect national security and are committed to strengthening and prioritizing the development of resilient and sustainable offshore wind supply chains."

The spokesperson added: "As demonstrated by the significant foreign direct investment showcased during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Beijing, we welcome investment from China—provided it aligns with the UK’s national interest."

"We will continue to manage our relationship with China in a consistent, long-term, and strategic manner—cooperating where possible, but never compromising on security and resilience."

Deputy First Minister of Scotland Kate Forbes said national security is important and must be respected.

But she added that the UK government’s failure to clearly explain what issues exist with Mingyang was "regrettable."

Forbes said: "This decision has sat on ministers’ desks in Whitehall for more than 18 months—their indecision will have far-reaching consequences, and ultimately, it will be Scotland that bears the cost."

"This is completely undermining Scotland’s industrial future."

Green Freeport

Ardersier was formerly an oil and gas manufacturing site near Inverness.

In the 1970s, McDermott Yard opened in Moray Firth to build offshore platforms for the then-emerging North Sea oil and gas industry.

At its peak, the yard employed around 4,500 people, but it closed in 2001 as demand declined.

The 450-acre (182-hectare) site is now being redeveloped and is part of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport.

This week, the public body Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) approved funding exceeding £3 million to support the site’s redevelopment.

Source: BBC

Original: toutiao.com/article/1860756239723520/

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