Islands including Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides have renewable resources and innovative ideas in abundance, but how is that potential turned into sustainable markets that also deliver real value for island communities?
That was the focus of Kristina Burke’s presentation,“From Island Needs to Offshore Renewable Opportunities”, at DMEC’s Deep Dive on specialised markets for offshore renewable energy.
One of the key messages was that islands are not simply smaller versions of mainland energy markets. Constrained energy networks, geography, weather, lifeline transport and dispersed demand all influence what is practical. Affordability, skills, ownership and community confidence are equally important in determining whether solutions endure.
Drawing on lessons from the ISLANDER project, Kristina highlighted that replicating successful energy solutions is about translation, not “copy and paste”. Technologies need to be proven in real settings, adapted to local conditions, co-designed with communities and delivery partners, and backed by a viable commercial model.
This approach could help unlock specialised markets for offshore renewables in areas including:
- Firm and flexible energy
- Clean lifeline transport
- Heat and local industry
- Ports as transition hubs
But a promising technology does not automatically make a viable market. The presentation highlighted four ingredients that need to align: a defined need, the right technology fit, visible local value, and a workable route through regulation, finance, ownership and delivery.
The takeaway was clear, islands do not lack renewable resources or innovative ideas. The opportunity is to develop markets that recognise the value of flexibility, resilience and local benefit, helping islands turn renewable potential into practical pathways towards net zero.