Highland Council hails the importance of Nigg, as port changes hands

Highland Council has today hailed the importance of the Port of Nigg to the region’s economy after ownership of the facility formally changed hands.

The multi-sector energy port forms part of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport - a partnership of public and private sector organisations, including The Highland Council, which aims to ensure the Cromarty Firth and wider region becomes a major global hub for green energy, delivering transformational benefits to Highland communities and the decarbonisation agenda.

The Port of Nigg has been sold by Global Energy Group (GEG) to Mitsui Group, a Japanese trading and investment group which has been an investor in GEG since 2012 and which will now drive the next stage of development at Nigg.

Highland Council praised the contributions made by Roy MacGregor and Global Energy Group, and wished the new owners continued success.

Highland Council leader Raymond Bremner said: “Roy MacGregor and the Global Energy Group have established an outstanding facility which has been integral to the establishment of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport and which has led the way in supporting the country’s energy transition.

“The legacy they leave is a substantial one - significant inward investment and jobs for the Highlands.

“We wish the new owners every success as they drive the next stage of development at Nigg, building on the solid foundations which have delivered long-term, secure, skilled employment.”

Highland Council convener Bill Lobban said: “Green energy continues to offer hope and opportunity for present and future generations to develop a highly skilled career without having to leave the region.

“Though under new ownership, we have no doubt the port will continue to innovate and grow as Scotland’s energy transition continues apace, and Nigg will continue to be a tribute to all that Roy has achieved to date.”