SNP Duo Invite Energy Commissioner Piebalgs To Visit Eigg

The Island of Eigg, one of the Small Isles, has been hailed as an example for other communities to follow, both within Scotland and across Europe. Mr Smith also suggested that the success of Eigg illustrates how Scotland can lead the way in applying renewable technology to local communities.

Mr Smith, a substitute member of the European Parliament Energy Committee, said:

"Eigg is a cracking example of what can be achieved when there is the necessary investment and vision in the implementation of renewable energy. The islanders and other collaborators have shown great initiative to supply the island's 37 households and 5 commercial properties with electricity.

"The use of an energy mix on the island - solar, hydro and wind power - to ensure security and diversity of supply will surely be a template that Scotland and Europe can use as a text book example of good practice.

"Eigg's representative in the Scottish Parliament, Fergus Ewing, and I would like to show Commissioner Piebalgs how energy policy can and does work on the ground, and what we have been doing in Scotland to lead the way in the development and implementation of renewable energy technologies."