The Department of Economic Development recently promoted opportunities in the Isle of Man’s offshore renewable energy sector at a high-profile event in London.
 
A business breakfast at key industry event ‘The Rushlight Show 2013’ was attended by over 100 people from a wide array of energy and clean-tech related businesses including investors, professional advisors and businesses.
 
Laurence Skelly MHK, Political Member for the Isle of Man Department of Economic Development with responsibility for Clean Tech, commented:

‘The purpose of the breakfast was to brief delegates on opportunities in the Isle of Man’s energy and clean tech sectors including raising awareness that the Isle of Man Government owns 4,000 sq km of seabed which contains an excellent wind and tidal resource. Furthermore, the presentations provided an update on recent progress including the Manx Marine Environmental Assessment, the new offshore consenting regime for developments within Manx waters and highlighting the Isle of Man as a location for businesses operating in the clean tech sector.
 
‘One of our aims stated in the energy policy is that we are committed to minimising the impact of our energy use on the environment, securing the efficient use of affordable energy and maintaining the security of energy supply.  Our attendance at this event is entirely consistent with achieving these aims and recognising the significant economic development opportunities that exist from the pursuit of them.’
 
The event also featured an exhibition and award-winning local clean tech firm Dry Planet formed part of the team on the Isle of Man stand.
 
Dr Ken Milne, Senior Manager for Energy Policy, Department of Economic Development added:
‘The Isle of Man offers the ideal environment to nurture and develop clean tech businesses including providing an ideal test site for new technologies.   

The Rushlight event is an important part of our marketing programme to help promote this. It is the only event in the UK and Ireland that showcases the best new clean energy and environmental solutions and brings investors, customers and advisers together with the clean technology companies themselves.’

Photo - Ken Milne, Senior Manager for Energy Policy, Department of Economic Development.