Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) through its subsidiary Mitsubishi Power Systems Europe (MPSE) has chosen Scotland as the location for its UK research and development centre.

The centre will work on the development of offshore wind technology, aiming to have the world’s leading offshore wind turbine.

It will bring an estimated 200 jobs to the area.

Mitsubishi has also acquired Edinburgh University’s Artemis Intelligent Power (AIP) as part of the deal, along with a commitment to establish the MPSE Centre for Advanced Technology (MCAT) within the Edinburgh area.

MPSE will work with AIP to deliver unique hydraulic technology in a large offshore wind turbine, which the company expects will be a ‘game changer’ in the development of offshore wind power.

Scotland’s first minister, Alex Salmond, said: “Scotland is a leader in the development of clean green energy and boasts a world-class research and development base that is pioneering technologies that will have a global impact on combating climate change.

“Mitsubishi Power Systems Europe’s announcement of £100 million investment capitalises on Scotland’s strengths in innovation and offshore energy generation.”

The project will boost the UK’s position as the destination of choice for investment in low carbon technology.

UK minister of state for energy, Charles Hendry, said: “I want the UK to be the world’s number one destination for the research, development and deployment of offshore wind turbines.

“This announcement is a real vote of confidence in innovation in our renewables sector and I am delighted that the potential of this technology has been recognised by a major global player.”

Alison Brown

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