Thursday saw the launch of a £15 million fund designed to help the offshore wind industry develop deep-water foundations.
Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said the prototype fund would help Scotland retain its position as one of the world’s leading centres for the offshore wind industry.
One of the challenges to attracting investment into the sector is the development of the innovative technology to be used in challenging North Sea conditions.
“This funding will help maintain Scotland’s position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for renewable energy investment, development and deployment,” he said.
“It will help lower costs in developing the foundations needed for wind turbines in deeper water and more varied seabed conditions currently the second-largest cost associated with this type of project.
“It should also benefit Scottish companies through the supply chain, securing jobs and boosting our economic recovery.”
Scottish Enterprise’s director of energy and clean technologies Maggie McGinlay said the step would make a “significant contribution” to reducing the cost of creating “an internationally renowned industry” in Scotland.
Three large offshore development are planned within striking distance of the coast of Tayside and Fife. Planning consents and investment decisions are still awaited, but the industry has accepted cost-reduction targets for generation of £100pMWh.