Three large data centres now have, or expect shortly to have, planning permission along the M8/M74 corridor. Others are being proposed in Grampian and Highland regions. Potential future energy demand could run into several GW. All seek to have authentic dedicated sources of renewable energy as soon as possible. All are trying to attract major (often international) players who potentially could invest into hastening the development of Scotland’s renewables potential. The whole process has been hit recently by data industry alarm and uncertainty surrounding CRC legislation.

This session aims to explain and reassure about how CRC legislation, Climate Change Levy, etc will be implemented. It will also act as a catalyst towards encouraging more liaison between data and renewables industries in Scotland; and explore possibilities for setting up an ‘advisory panel’ to help inform Scottish Ministers about strategies to support development of this dual sector, as opposed to just the renewables sector. Finally, it will discuss issues surrounding conflicting demands for renewable energy, local grids, resolution of conflicting interests, etc.

Convener of the session is Roland Chaplain, who has been involved in setting up the 'Digital Age Lifestyles Working Group', part of a proposed inter-universities collaborative project, based at the Crichton University, Dumfries.

Speakers include:

Introduction by chair: Scott Bradley, Data Centre Optimisation Lead, Morse Group
Eric Baster, Policy Development Manager, Greener Scotland Division, Scottish Government [ presentation ]
James Cole, Director, Keysource [ presentation ]
Dr Chris Francis, Government Programmes, IBM [ presentation ]
Mark Hobbins, Head of Engineering, Energy and Consultancy, Barron Evers [ presentation ]
Renewables for remote data centres project, Kati Svehla, Strathclyde University [ presentation ]
Q&A and panel discussion with Gordon McCreath, Partner, Pinsent Masons

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