This is in response to the council administration's press release on the appointment of consultants to provide business planning support for the establishment of an Outer Hebrides Energy Supply Company.
Councillor Gordon Murray : "I welcome the Comhairle's announcement today regarding the establishment of an Outer Hebrides Energy Supply Company.
The main objective should be delivering cost price electricity from wind energy to eradicate fuel poverty, encourage families to settle here and help business development on the islands.
The possibility of entering into a supply contract with the Comhairle in respect of the Authority's total electricity consumption would enable ESCo to advance much more rapidly in the securing of funding for the provision of turbines. It would also make efficiency savings and allow monies to be diverted into frontline services instead of high energy costs.
I would also call for a cost / reward analysis in relation to any tie up with a private supplier with particular regard to the post short term arrangement as this is essential to prevent local endeavours failing to fully capitalise on our energy resource.
We want to avoid being tied into a long term contractual situation which is seriously prejudicial merely to secure a short term advantage.
If a low cost energy environment could be created then economic advantages over the mainland will arise."
A journal written by the SNP opposition group on the Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council).
