Great British Energy has opened its permanent headquarters in Aberdeen as the publicly owned company expands its presence in the North East.
The organisation has moved into 2 Marischal Square on Broad Street, next to the North Sea Transition Authority, following the completion of work to prepare the city-centre office.
The headquarters will accommodate GB Energy’s main corporate functions, supply-chain activities and major development projects, including its ambitions in deep-water offshore wind.
Chief executive Dan McGrail said the company wanted to draw upon Aberdeen’s established energy expertise while creating employment and helping young people access careers in renewable energy.
He said GB Energy intended to become an active member of the local community and build a lasting legacy in the city.
The company expects to employ around 300 people over the coming years, with the majority based at its Aberdeen headquarters. It has also set a wider target of creating or supporting more than 10,000 jobs through its activities and investments by 2030.
However, the scale and pace of direct job creation in Aberdeen have attracted criticism from opposition politicians. Earlier estimates suggested the headquarters could eventually support more than 1,000 roles, although that figure has since been revised.
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh described the opening as an important step in supporting and training people for new energy jobs in Scotland and across the UK.
She said Aberdeen’s skills and expertise meant the city would remain central to Britain’s future energy system.
Shadow energy secretary and West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie raised concerns about the number of roles created so far.
He said: “Labour promised it would create 1,000 direct jobs, but with just a few dozen permanent staff, it’s no surprise people across the North East believe GB Energy is just a pointless gimmick.”
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Bowie also called on the UK Government to change its approach to North Sea energy policy, including new licences, the energy profits levy and decisions concerning the Rosebank and Jackdaw developments.
GB Energy was established as part of the UK Government’s plans to accelerate investment in renewable energy and strengthen domestic energy security.
Aberdeen was selected as the organisation’s home in recognition of the city’s long-standing energy industry, skilled workforce and proximity to major renewable developments.
