WJM REFLECTS ON SUCCESSFUL RENEWABLES EVENT

Fraser Gillies, Managing Partner at Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP, has heralded the firm’s annual renewables seminar, which was held on COP26’s official Day of Energy, a huge success.

Gillies delivered the keynote speech at the event which was attended by over 100 decision makers from across Scotland’s planning and renewables sectors, alongside a panel of expert speakers.

The panel comprised David MacArthur, co-owner of the carbon negative environmental consultancy MacArthur Green, David Bell of David Bell Planning Ltd, chartered landscape architect and founder of MVGLA Marc van Grieken, and Andy McFarlane who heads up WJM’s team of renewables experts.

NPF4 was a key focal point of the seminar, with speakers discussing its importance in supporting the Government’s objectives to reach its net zero target and shaping the way planning decisions are made.

Fraser Gillies noted: “Our seminar took place in Glasgow at the same time as COP26 – there has never been a better time to discuss renewables, climate change and the policy changes needed as Scotland seeks to meet its environmental targets.”

As well as planning and policy trends, speakers also discussed peatland carbon and how peatland restoration projects may interfere with the development of onshore wind farms if more of these types of projects are developed in areas where wind farms could be built.

David MacArthur provided insight on the obstacles and opportunities presented by increased peatland restoration, and how the onshore wind industry can embrace this and work together to their mutual benefit.

Gillies continued: “It was fantastic to have the opportunity to hear from a variety of expert speakers who each offered a unique perspective on the situation. It is evident that renewables will play a key role in the global fight against climate change, so this will continue to be a major focus area for our firm going forward.”

WJM’s renewables team provides legal advice to clients on a wide variety of areas of renewable energy, including onshore and offshore wind, battery storage, hydro, tidal, wave, biomass and solar, working alongside the firm’s property, planning and corporate teams to provide an integrated service.