Local businesses in Argyll have flocked to a virtual “meet the buyer” event organised by leading renewables company RES, ahead of the construction of Blary Hill Wind Farm in Scotland.

RES was overwhelmed by the interest in the virtual meet the buyer event held on 16th July, leading to a spill-over day being organised to accommodate the interest received. In total 15 local businesses asked to speak to RES about the services they could provide during the construction of the wind farm and the project website has received more than 200 unique page views since the beginning of July.

Local businesses offering services including cleaning, fencing, haulage, transport, security, accommodation and electrical support all shared their skills and experience during the event. RES’ construction project manager, procurement manager and main civils contractor spoke to local businesses on calls of up to 30 minutes. In addition to the Blary specific information, the RES team were also able to provide general advice about working in the renewables industry and the potential future opportunities at other projects.

RES is currently undertaking access works on Barr Glen Road in preparation for the removal of forestry from the site, helping to support the production of key products, such as pallets, packaging, biomass fuel and face masks, and in the coming weeks RES expects to begin the main construction of the wind farm.

Iain MacCallum, Construction Project Manager, said: 
“In my view connecting with local businesses is absolutely key to a successful construction project and bringing money into the local economy.

“I knew about some of the skills and experience that businesses have in the area, as we've already utilised them for initial works at Blary Hill, but it was great to connect with so many more during the virtual meet the buyer event last week.”

David Croft of Kintyre Cleaning Solutions, said: 
“As a new business that’s actively looking for opportunities as we emerge from the current health and economic crisis, I was impressed by the time, information and support that RES provided during the meet the buyer event.

“It’s clear that RES wants to work with local businesses on this project and I would like to thank them for the opportunity that they afforded myself and others to discuss the potential opportunities and our businesses.”

KeyFacts Energy: RES UK country profile