A high-powered array of speakers on renewable energy and other carbon reduction technologies has been brought together for a three day event at Lews Castle College early next month.

The presentations will focus on both the energy potential of the Western Isles and also the work being done at Lews Castle College on issues such as carbon reduction in buildings and the potential of hydrogen in transforming the energy mix.  Visitors will also view local initiatives including the anerobic digestor plant established by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar near Stornoway.

Dr Neil Finlayson, senior researcher at Lews Castle College, said: "We've managed to attract excellent,top-class speakers and we're really delighted to be hosting an event of this quality in the Hebrides. There is growing momentum in UHI and the region on renewable energy and we hope the school can contribute substantially to the formulation of innovative yet practical solutions to the problem of climate change".

Former UK Energy Minister, Brian Wilson, who is advising the College-based Greenspace Research on policy issues, said: "There will be a tremendous amount of high-quality information available over these three days.  This event will both inform the outside world about the excellent work that is going on in the islands and also provide a reality check on the potential for the Western Isles to benefit from their own energy resources".

Speakers will include:

• Dr Walt Patterson from the Royal Institute of International Affairs whose new book, "Keeping the Lights On - Towards Sustainable Electricity" argues in favour of localised generation as opposed to the traditional reliance on big infratructure;
• Paul Gardner from the consultancy firm Garrard Hassan who will speak on the renewable energy resources of the Highlands and Islands - and the steps required to turn potential into reality;
• Douglas Allan from the Irish windpower company, Airtricity, on "Grids and Supergrids", outlining the potential for offshore windpower to connect electricity markets throughout Europe;
• Professors Hans Auer and Carlo Obersteiner from the University of Vienna, who will demonstrate their renewable energy economic modelling tool, GreenNet.

While the three day school  -  running from Monday 3rd to Wednesday 5th September - will be aimed primarily at the student audience, it will also be open to the public who are welcome to attend any of the sessions.  The three days proceedings will be chaired by college principal David Green, Councillor Archie Campbell from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Brian Wilson, respectively.

Anyone interested in attending should contact Rachel Mackenzie via email at rachel.mackenzie@lews.uhi.ac.uk or via telephone on 01851 770 322.

Rachel Mackenzie BAcc CA
Economics & Policy Group
Greenspace Research
Lews Castle College
Stornoway
Isle of Lewis

Tel - 01851 770 322