Welcome to the first e-zine about Energetica – the planned new energy community in Aberdeen City and Shire.

Editorial by Professor Stephen Logan, ACSEF board member and chairman of the Energetica board.

This ACSEF-led project is a significant part of the region’s strategy to build on its energy credentials, diversify the economy and enhance our quality of life. As such a major project, stretching north from Bridge of Don to Peterhead and west to the airport, we are keen to engage with as many stakeholders as possible. The aim of this newsletter is to provide up to date information on the project so that everyone is fully informed and can participate in key milestone events and activities and in shaping the various components as the project progresses.

Energetica is one of the region’s most exciting and ambitious schemes in recent years involving both the public and private sector. Borne out of an initial concept from a group of private sector individuals, the project has evolved rapidly with major early successes in terms of securing inclusion of the development in the local development plans, a £9million investment in the science and energy parks, securing land at Upperton for a new industry business park and substantial investment at Peterhead Port.

With the groundwork now well and truly laid, the project is moving to delivery phase. In this newsletter, you will read more about the delivery plan and the appointment of a project director, Sara Budge, to lead the implementation of that plan.

2011 will see much more progress for Energetica and we will be sharing it with you through these regular e-zines as well as through media coverage and various events.

Please enjoy this first edition of Energetica News. Through your support and engagement, we can realise our ambition of creating a world-class energy destination and ensure that Aberdeen City and Shire claims its rightful position as a global energy hub.