Energy sector firms encouraged to consider Decommissioning Challenge Fund

Energy sector supply chain companies across the Highlands and Islands are being encouraged by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to consider applying to the Decommissioning Challenge Fund (DCF).The move follows an announcement (Thursday 9 August) by energy Minister, Paul Wheelhouse, of a further £5m for the fund.Last year the DCF awarded grants totalling £4.8m for projects that strengthen Scotland’s decommissioning capacity.These included more than £800,000 for infrastructure upgrades at Kishorn Dry Dock in Wester Ross, by owners Kishorn Port Ltd. The Lyness Oil and Gas decommissioning base in Orkney, a project by Orkney Islands Council, received more than £90,000 for work at the Lyness quayside and surrounding area. And almost £60,000 was invested in feasibility studies commissioned by Stornoway Port Authority for the proposed decommissioning facility at Arnish on Lewis.More than £118,000 went to the upgrading of plant and machinery by EMN Plant Ltd, and skills development, at the Shetland Specialist Decommissioning service. And Lerwick Engineering and Fabrication Ltd received more than £80,000 for the purchase of equipment to enhance capabilities within the decom market in Shetland.