Strengths
As well as positioning itself as a global market leader in renewable energy, Scotland also has a long history of success in the clean technologies sector.
Skills and expertise
- Scottish universities capitalise on their internationally renowned research in energy and electronics to develop leading research projects and training course related to environmental technologies
- A skilled and dedicated workforce that includes highly-skilled engineers
- Every year, Scotland produces over 7200 graduates in engineering and environment-related studies
Supportive infrastructure
- 15 science parks in Scotland give support for companies to develop and grow
- 12 out of the country’s 14 universities are engaged in clean technology research
- As well as the many academic institutes dedicated to cleantech research, there are three other ‘centres of excellence’ in Scotland, such as the Pure Energy Centre which is committed to providing renewable hydrogen solutions
- Other support comes from initiatives such as the Scottish Environmental Technology Network, and various knowledge transfer networks and trade associations, such as the Community Resources Network for Scotland
- Networking and knowledge exchange programmes through industry forums and information platforms
- Initiative such as Sustainable Glasgow can provide support to companies engaged in clean technology
Cost-competitive
- Relatively low rents and staffing rates
- Wide variety of financial support available, including tax relief and start-up assistance – find out what grants you could have access to in ‘how we can help’