Jobs boost as power firm Aggreko invests £33m

A Scottish-based global power supply firm has announced a £33 million innovation project bringing more than 20 jobs.

Chris Weston, left, CEO of Aggreko with Nicola Sturgeon and Linda Hanna of Scottish Enterprise

Aggreko’s Future Technology Project to develop new power generators at its site in Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire, will create 23 new jobs.

A £1.5 million Scottish Enterprise research and development grant will go towards the schemes aimed at creating more efficient generators with lower carbon emissions.

Projects include expanding the use of solar-diesel hybrid energy storage products, increasing integration of renewable energy into battery storage and improving energy efficiency.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who visited the site on Wednesday, said: “With 23 highly skilled jobs being created in Dumbarton and significant investment by the company, it is hugely encouraging that Aggreko regard Scotland as the perfect place for them to grow their business.

“As our new Energy Strategy sets out, it is crucial that we find new ways to ensure energy is produced efficiently, and integrates renewable and low carbon technology - as is the case with these developments by Aggreko.”

She said the government wants Scotland “to once again be the inventor and manufacturer of the innovations that shape the future” and has increased business research and development grants by 70%.

Chris Weston, CEO, Aggreko, said: “Power generation and energy markets are going through a fundamental change and businesses, organisations and governments across the globe are having to respond rapidly to this changing energy landscape.

“The Scottish Government has identified the need for a low-carbon economy and increased innovation as a top priority. We are delighted with the support Scottish Enterprise has shown by contributing funding towards our Future Technology initiative.”

Aggreko is a global leader in the rental of power and temperature control systems, and has been operational in Scotland since 1973.

It employs 502 people north of the Border, including 240 at its Lomondgate facility in Dumbarton.