Indonesia seeks Scottish advice on renewable energy

Renewable energy experts from Indonesia are looking at what lessons they can learn from the industry in Scotland, as part of an event being run by Robert Gordon University (RGU).

The Centre for Understanding Sustainable Practice (CUSP) at RGU, led by Alan Owen, will welcome representatives from the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and the Indonesian Ocean Energy Association (INOCEAN), as well as various experts from Scotland who will provide their insight into the Scottish energy situation.

Starting in Edinburgh, the Indonesian delegation will give an overview of the current status of marine energy in the country and highlight their priorities in developing the industry, while representatives from a range of Scottish bodies will share their experiences of the renewables industry.

The delegation will then travel to Orkney, a marine energy centre of excellence, where they will look at how the island has established its expertise in the area.

Director of CUSP, Alan Owen, said: “CUSP has been working closely with a number of agencies in Indonesia to help develop a pathway to creating a viable marine energy in the country so we are delighted to welcome this delegation in Scotland.

“I hope they will take a lot away from hearing of the various experiences of developing a renewable energy industry in Scotland and that it will help to inform the growth of renewable energy in Indonesia.”

CUSP was recently awarded £183,000 from two UK Government funds to be used to help build up the Indonesia’s science and innovation capacity, as well as accelerating the implementation of marine energy in more remote areas.

The team aims to support and promote the development of marine energy research, development, and implementation in the country through a series of capacity building programmes and has established a strategic partnership with Orkney-based company Aquatera to deliver the aims.

Image: Robert Gordon University