Highland Tourism CIC has expanded its board to include renewables and environment capabilities with the addition of leading renewable energy industry and environment specialist, George Baxter.

He will contribute to the organisation’s work in marrying renewable energy investment with the tourism industry, creating sustainable opportunities to grow the sector in the process.

Mr Baxter has played a key role in numerous renewable energy projects in the Highlands and Islands, including the Stronelairg and Viking Wind Farms and the Coire Glas pumped hydro storage scheme in the Great Glen.

He joined GreenPower, a leading Scottish owned independent renewable energy business, as Development Director in 2019 after 12 years at SSE contributing to the consenting and construction pipeline of over 3.5GW of renewable energy and storage projects.

George Baxter said: “Tourism and renewable energy have a rich and long history in the Highlands and Islands, growing and working alongside each other – and the need and opportunity to work together for the common good has never been greater. So I am delighted to support Highland Tourism and make a contribution as best I can.

“The collective response required to tackle the Covid-19, climate and nature crises needs new and bolder ideas and more urgent, positive action. It is an opportunity to create healthier, living landscapes and vibrant, sustainable communities with skills and good jobs – to create a place that houses, supports, connects and nourishes as much its own people as its visitors – and renewable energy has a massive role to play and contribution to make in that endeavour. Scotland’s, and the Highland’s, climate change response has the chance to be a beacon to the world – and who wouldn’t want to visit that? Sustainably of course!”

As a strong advocate for building links between the renewable sector and the Highland community, George initiated SSE’s support for the Highlands and Island Tourism Awards and

partnership working with UHI to develop renewable and energy skills programmes. George also has significant industry experience which includes five years as Board Director at trade body Scottish Renewables.

Yvonne Crook, Highland Tourism CIC co-founder and chair said: “Renewable energy is here to stay and it is growing in the Highlands. Investment from this sector should be harnessed not just to help with the important net zero goals and fighting climate change, but also to create new sustainable opportunities for the vital tourism sector in the region.

“George’s addition to the board brings us skills, knowledge and experience in marrying renewables with tourism, and we are delighted to have him join us. His guidance and input will help us to create wider benefits for tourism businesses and enhance the brand story of the Highlands.”