Viking legacy

THE VIKING Energy wind farm is building a legacy before it has even been built.

The week after the Scottish government granted planning consent for the 103 turbine development in Shetland, the Isle of Man government is holding it up as an example of local development.

Pointing out Viking’s estimated annual contribution to Shetland of £30 million, Isle of Man environment minister Phil Gawne said: “While I know there is some scepticism among the Manx public about wind farms the Shetland Viking project demonstrates the considerable economic value that can be generated for small island economies from such projects.

“This wind farm in Shetland, if mirrored here, would half our current deficit and realise other economic benefits including service industry jobs.”

The Isle of Man envisages an offshore wind farm and is currently drawing up a marine spatial plan similar to the one developed by Scalloway’s NAFC Marine Centre.