Muir of Ord-based SGL Carbon eyes 'renewable energy revolution' spin-offs from Port of Cromarty Firth as firm hailed by Trade Minister
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THE Cromarty's Firth's new freeport status could have spin-off benefits for Ross-shire firms like SGL Carbon which has already joined the "renewable energy revolution".
So said Scottish Government Trade Minister Ivan McKee after a tour of the Muir of Ord plant which currently employs around 250 people.
The only carbon fibre producer in the UK, SGL is seeing a significant resurgence in order demand for its products. Muir Of Ord produces a range of fibre-based products with carbon fibre at its core. An ongoing increase in sales has been dominated by the renewable energy sector with carbon material produced at the site being used in wind turbines, battery storage devices and electric vehicles.
It is hoped the freeport status in the Cromarty Firth will deliver further opportunities for growth.
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Mr McKee – who also visited the Port of Cromarty Firth this week – said: "SGL has joined the renewable energy revolution by producing materials used in electric vehicles and offshore wind turbines, exporting around the world and transforming the local economy. SGL is a prime example of the positive impact inward investors can have on Scotland’s regions, in line with priorities in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation to deliver a stronger, fairer, greener economy.
“Wider opportunities from the Inverness and Cromarty Green Freeport can promote further growth and regeneration while making a significant contribution to achieving our net zero ambitions.”
Steve Easton, managing director at SGL Carbon, said: “We were delighted to arrange a tour and meeting with Mr McKee and share with him our operations and approach to manufacturing. Fibre production at the site was established in 1981, with SGL Carbon acquiring it in 1997. Since then, we have seen continued growth and expansion with currently 250 people employed at the Muir Of Ord site. The majority of our products are being used within the renewables sector, contributing to a greener future and we look forward to playing our role in growth from the freeport status.”
The team are currently recruiting and looking for positions in maintenance, supply chain and training and development. For more information see www.sglcarbon.com.
