Orkney – A renewable powerhouse
According to MCS data, the Orkney Islands have long been at the forefront of adopting small-scale renewable technologies in the UK. More than one in four households in Orkney have an MCS certified renewable installation, such as solar PV, heat pumps and battery storage, underscoring the local authorities’ commitment to cleaner, greener energy. Let’s explore the renewable energy landscape of the Orkney Islands and the factors fuelling renewable energy hotspot.
Climate challenges driving uptake
One of the key drivers for small-scale renewable technologies in Orkney is the cost of energy. The climate in Orkney tends to be wetter, windier, and cooler than in many other parts of the UK, meaning that households generally have their heating on for longer in the year meaning that energy bills are generally higher.
HEAT PUMPS ARE WARMING UP
In response to the colder climate, heat pumps have become a popular renewable technology in Orkney. As of August 2024, 14.7% of households in Orkney have an MCS certified heat pump, with over 11% using air source heat pumps. Heat pumps help homeowners reduce energy bills, achieve energy independence, and lower their carbon footprint by extracting heat from the air, ground, or local water sources.
A helping hand
The Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan offers a one-off grant payment of up to £7,500 towards the installation of an MCS certified heat pump, and able to claim up to £9,000 if your household qualifies for the rural uplift.
The HES Grant and Loan remains a vital part of making home-grown energy more affordable and accessible across Scotland, with households cross Orkney taking advantage of the incentive to make the switch to greener and cleaner energy. The installation must be MCS certified to qualify for the grant, giving consumers confidence in the quality, safety and performance of their heat pump installation.
You can find out more about the HES Grant and Loan here.
THE ORKNEY RENEWABLE ENERGY FORUM (OREF)
Established in 2000, the OREF has played a key role in Orkney’s successful adoption of certified renewable technologies. As a membership organisation, OREF is open to businesses and individuals with an involvement or interest in the development of renewable energy in Orkney.
Speaking of the importance of community collaboration, they told us they regularly ‘gather together to discuss energy conservation and new renewable technologies, and, in doing so, we inform ourselves and also motivate others to take steps.’
Local Policies and Community Efforts
There are also local policies driving the uptake of small-scale renewables alongside the hard work of OREF members. The Orkney Islands Council has implemented its Sustainable Energy Strategy until 2025 and a supporting Action Plan. The strategy sets specific targets for Orkney to reduce carbon emissions, eradicate fuel poverty, develop a secure net zero energy supply and position itself as a globally recognised region for innovation in energy systems.
Orkney sets a strong example for local authorities across the UK investing in renewable energy. We look forward to seeing more certified technologies installed in Orkney as they continue their transition to cleaner and greener energy.
If you’re thinking about getting a renewable energy installation for your home or small business, you can find an MCS certified contractor near you by visiting our MCS ‘Find a Contractor’ tool below.