At a meeting of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar on 1 October Members of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar approved a decision to appoint the Comhairle Leader, Depute Leader and the Chair or Vice Chair of Sustainable Development to the Board.

Eilean Siar Energy is a joint venture between Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Muaitheabhal Community Wind Farm Trust and the Stornoway Trust with each organisation having three representatives at Board level. It has been established to explore how best to take up the 20% ownership stake in two windfarm developments, Stornoway Wind Farm and Uisenis Wind Farm.

Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said:

“I welcome the appointment of three Comhairle nan Eilean Siar representatives to the Board of Eilean Siar Energy. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s position is clear, that if major renewable energy projects are to be developed in the Western Isles our community must receive direct and lasting benefits. Eilean Siar Energy has developed and is progressing a sector-leading model that promises to deliver much needed and transformational investment to our communities. I look forward to engaging with the public and working with our partners to ensure that we achieve the maximum benefit for our communities should the consented projects progress to operation.”

While the work of Eilean Siar Energy progresses, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Major Development Oversight Board is continuing to oversee the Comhairle’s response to the proposed pipeline of renewable projects and associated infrastructure set to commence in the Western Isles from late 2026.